FORMULATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL COSTS OF THE TIJUCA FOREST ECOSYSTEM (RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL)

Abstract

Methods for evaluating environmental costa of forest parameters are presented for the Tijuca Forest ecosystem. The objective of this study was to provide data for use in legal processes. A phytosociological survey of 0.5 ha of forest was used to provide total timber volume according to 3 separate wood-quality classes. Weights and the corresponding market prices were calculated for the stock of nutrients in the soil to 20 cm depth and the litter (N, P, K, Ca and Mg), Ornamental plants of greater value - Orchidaceae. Bromeliaceae, Araceae and Palmae - were also counted and given market prices. The volume of water produced by the springs of the soil was also evaluated. Values per hectare, per weight and market price are given for each category, as follows: nutrients in the soil and in the litter layer: 38275 kg/ha (USS 9003.00): ornamental plants: 1583 individuals (US$ 2283.00). The water produced by the springs is 7660 m³/ha US$1608.00). Net volumes of wood per category and corresponding prices are: class 1 (hardwood) 20.7 m³/ha (US$ 4372.00): class 2 (wood for structural use): 37.6 m³/ha (US$ 4894.00) and class 3 (wood for energy use): 314.6 st/ha. A total value of US$ 27000.00 per hectare was found for the items analyzed.