Biomes Project: Brazil Launches an Unprecedented Proposal for Preservation and Food Productivity at COP-16

CANCUN, Mexico, Nov. 29, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- The Brazilian Confederation of Agriculture and Livestock (CNA), in partnership with the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (EMBRAPA), will launch the Biomes Project globally, this December 6th, 2010, at 11:30am, during the 16th United Nations Climate Change Conference - COP-16, in Cancun, Mexico.

With this initiative, CNA and EMBRAPA want to propose technical and scientific solutions for the protection and sustainable use of rural areas in different biomes. The research will be focused on the use of tree species, native or exotic in Permanent Preservation Areas (APP) and their surroundings, such as legal reserves (LRs).

At present, several demonstration units of the project are being demarcated and studied in the six biomes (the Amazonian and Atlantic Rainforests, Savannas, Wetlands, Grasslands and Pampas). The research is directed toward the preservation and planting of trees, which can be used not only as an alternative to agricultural diversification, but also in rebuilding environmentally fragile areas of rural properties.

The Brazilian farmer will be able to choose the best for his property from real examples, already put into practice. "Let's show the world that Brazil is not only a major producer of food, but that our farming practices are based on sound scientific techniques and are environmentally sustainable," said the president of CNA, Senator Katia Abreu.

About CNA

The Brazilian Confederation of Agriculture and Livestock represents more than a million farmers in Brazil. It is comprised of 27 rural labor federations and 2142 unions with operations in the municipalities. Headquartered in Brasilia, Brazil's capital, it is the national forum for discussions on agricultural activities in Brazil, working permanently in the defense of the rights and socio-economic interests of people living and working in the field.

About Senator Katia Abreu

President of the CNA since 2008, Senator Katia Abreu is a rural producer and Senator of the state of Tocantins, Brazil.

About EMBRAPA

EMBRAPA - Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation has as its mission to research possible solutions, developments and innovations for sustainable agriculture for the benefit of Brazilian society.

What: Launch of the Brazilian Biomes Project

Where: Press Conference Room Sol, at the Moon Palace Azteca/Expo Centre

When:  December 6th, from 11h30 am to 12h00

Who: Senator Katia Abreu, president of CNA and Gustavo Rucio, coordinator of the Biomes Project, EMBRAPA Forests.

RSVP: Pedro Costa [email protected]  Nira Worcman [email protected]  

SOURCE Brazilian Confederation of Agriculture and Livestock