THE INFLUENCE OF ENVIRONMENTAL LEGISLATION ON THE INSTALLATION OF ELECTRICITY IN ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AREAS

Abstract

This study addresses the influence of environmental legislation on the installation of electricity infrastructure in Environmental Protection Areas (EPAs), focusing on traditional communities in the Rio Salsa region, located in Canavieiras, Bahia, Brazil. The topic is highly relevant due to the growing conflict between environmental preservation and the fundamental rights of these communities, particularly regarding access to electricity—an essential service for human dignity and sustainable development. The central issue lies in analyzing to what extent environmental laws may restrict electricity access in protected areas and whether judicial actions have effectively upheld this right for local populations. The general objective of this research is to examine the impact of environmental regulations on electricity access for traditional populations and assess whether the Judiciary has ensured this right under the constitutional principle of human dignity. The methodology adopted is data research, focusing on legislative, doctrinal, and case law analysis, including the study of judicial decisions from the Rio Salsa region. The findings show that while environmental laws play a crucial role in ecosystem preservation, they must not override fundamental rights, especially when they concern communities that rely on basic services for survival and dignity. The conclusion emphasizes the need to balance environmental protection with social development by encouraging low-impact technical solutions and judicial decisions that safeguard these communities' rights, promoting a more just and sustainable approach to the issue.