The Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA) needs to increase its fine collection rate to 70% if it is to fully stop illegal logging, according to the the Man and Environment Institute of the Amazon (IMAZON).
The latest International Tropical Timber Organisation timber market report said IMAZON had estimated that if the collection of fines issued to illegal loggers reached 70% there would be a decline in illegal logging in the Amazon, as companies and individuals will see legal practices as more economically viable.
In addition, IMAZON told the Brazilian news source Folha Online that IBAMA needs to improve law enforcement and judicial capacity if it is to dramatically increase the fine collection rate, which currently sits at 2.5%.
ITTO said IBAMA spent BRL42m (£10m) trying to control illegal logging in the Amazon during 2006.
