WRI Brasil

Brazil is unparalleled in its cultural and natural wealth.

It boasts one of the largest and most diverse populations on the planet, including more than 300 Indigenous groups and thousands of growing cities. It’s rich in ecological treasures. The Amazon rainforest alone holds one-third of Earth’s species and a quarter of its freshwater. And it’s one of the biggest and most far-reaching economies. Much of the world’s soy, beef and other commodities come from Brazil.

But Brazil’s development path threatens the very assets that make it so unique.

Clearing land to make way for farms and ranches has destroyed millions of hectares of forest. Voracious agricultural expansion also fuels the climate crisis. Communities feel the effects in the form of escalating floods, landslides and wildfires. And while Brazil’s cities power its economic engine, not everyone reaps the benefits. Over 16 million people still live in informal settlements. Many lack basic necessities like clean water and transportation.

There’s a better way — one that secures the country’s future prosperity by protecting nature instead of exploiting it.

Brazil is already moving in this direction. The country has slowed its deforestation rates. National initiatives increasingly prioritize sustainable development and ecological conservation. And a growing body of research shows that equitable economic development hinges on healthy ecosystems. For example, a WRI study found that Brazil can end deforestation in the Amazon while growing GDP by over $8 billion a year and creating thousands of jobs.

Realizing a better future requires more than incremental shifts. What Brazil needs is a new development model — one that works for people, nature and the climate. WRI works closely with governments, businesses and civil society groups to achieve this new reality.

WRI Brasil helps change the way the country designs its cities, produces food and manages land. We use research, coalitions and pilot projects to secure lasting solutions that improve people’s lives.

In cities, we expand public transport, redesign streets, increase access to secure housing, and integrate trees and green space. This creates neighborhoods that are safe and resilient. We work to protect Brazil’s remaining forests and restore degraded ones. And we shift agriculture toward sustainable practices like agroforestry. These models make ecosystems healthier while increasing farmers’ incomes.

Changing Brazil’s development trajectory isn’t easy. But it is essential — not only for Brazilians, but for the world. Through our five-year strategy, WRI will help Brazil preserve its natural vibrancy while becoming a global leader in green growth.

Download WRI's Brasil's Five-Year Strategy