PAYMENT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES: LAW No. 14,119/2021 AS A TOOL TO ENCOURAGE ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION IN PRIVATE AREAS IN SOUTH BAHIA

Abstract

This study addresses the implementation of Payment for Environmental Services (PES) as a tool to stimulate environmental conservation in private areas in southern Bahia, according to Law 14.119. The Atlantic Forest, a vital forest that covers about 15% of the Brazilian territory, faces serious degradation due to human occupation and the exploitation of natural resources, especially in the southern region of Bahia. In view of this scenario, this paper aims to investigate the impact of environmental law on sustainability programs, with a focus on PES, and to analyze the legal parameters as legal support instruments for these projects. The specific objectives of the study include: to analyze environmental law in Brazil, to understand the functioning of PES and to study the public policies to promote these programs. The methodology involved a literature review and document analysis of the relevant legislation, as well as case studies of PES programs implemented in the region. The results indicate that PES, supported by Law nº 14.119/2021, have great potential to engage rural landowners in environmental conservation, by attributing economic value to ecosystem services. The legislation provides a robust and flexible legal framework, allowing programs to be adapted to local specificities, maximizing their positive impact on biodiversity conservation and the recovery of degraded ecosystems. It is concluded that PES, supported by Brazilian environmental law, represent an effective approach to promote sustainability in private areas in southern Bahia. Implementation of these programs requires, however, careful planning and ongoing monitoring to ensure that financial incentives result in real and lasting environmental benefits.