The role of environmental licensing in the achievement of environmental policies in the state of Ceará

Abstract

The relationship between human beings and nature throughout history has often been characterized by a disharmonious logic, marked by significant intensification, reflected in the rapid exploitation, transformation and, in some cases, the depletion of natural resources. As an important instrument of the National Environmental Policy, environmental licensing plays a fundamental role in the management and control of human activities that have the potential to impact the environment. This essay aims to analyze the main implications of environmental licensing in the environmental policies of the State of Ceará. The methodology used was bibliographical review, consultation of data and documents and their subsequent qualitative analysis. Effective environmental licensing is considered to go beyond legal compliance; it encompasses public engagement, transparency and a rich assessment of environmental and social impacts. Despite being a widely used technical tool, it still needs to be further studied and improved for an effective contribution to environmental public policies in the State of Ceará.