GOVERNANCE IN THE CONTEXT OF THE ATLANTIC FOREST MUNICIPAL PLAN: APPROACHES AND CHALLENGES FOR ITS IMPLEMENTATION

Abstract

The aim of this article was to understand how the elements of environmental governance in the municipality of Lavras - MG can enable the implementation of the Atlantic Forest Municipal Plan (PMMA). The methodology took an exploratory and descriptive approach, analyzing the municipality's administrative structure, technical staff, environmental council (CODEMA), resources and legal framework. The results showed the existence of favorable institutional pillars, such as a well-structured Department of the Environment with a robust technical staff, an active council (CODEMA), an Environmental Fund with diversified sources of income and satisfactory environmental legislation. However, the analysis also revealed weaknesses that could limit the PMMA's future effectiveness. The council's agenda prioritizes reactive and palliative issues to the detriment of propositional issues such as the implementation of strategic conservation policies. In addition, there is legislation that needs to be regulated, such as the Payment for Environmental Services and the Municipal System of Conservation Units. The conclusion is that, despite the established institutional base, local environmental governance is challenged in terms of conservation and commitment to the application of strategic instruments for the protection and conservation of the Atlantic Forest, signaling possible ways to strengthen environmental policy in medium-sized municipalities.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.56238/sevened2025.021-031