MARCO REGULATÓRIO BRASILEIRO DO COMBATE AO TRÁFICO DE ANIMAIS SILVESTRES E A RESPONSABILIDADE DE ATUAÇÃO DOS MUNICÍPIOS

Abstract

The Brazilian biodiversity encompasses its vast territory consisting of six distinct biomes. However, this richness is under threat due to intense anthropogenic action, which includes the exploitation of natural resources. The trafficking of wildlife is an illicit practice resulting in the removal of millions of animals from nature each year, fueling a lucrative national and international market. This activity poses an alarming threat to biological diversity, compromising ecosystems and animal welfare. Despite the efforts of authorities, this criminal practice persists. Legal norms such as the Federal Constitution of 1988 and the Environmental Crimes Law establish coercive and preventive measures to combat this problem, imposing sanctions on offenders. This study adopts a qualitative approach using the deductive method to analyze deeply this phenomenon, identifying its causes, consequences, containment strategies, and relevant legislation. The aim is to raise awareness about the importance of preserving wildlife and the urgency of effective actions to address this threat to Brazilian biodiversity. The article concludes that despite existing regulations, there are weaknesses in sanctioning and punitive measures that are related to high seizure rates.