Evaluating Conservation Efficiency: Metrics for Management of Permanent Preservation Areas and Legal Reserves in Brazil

The Brazilian Forest Code regulates Permanent Preservation Areas (PPA) and Legal Reserves (LR) in all federation states. These areas support the maintenance of ecological functions and are essential for biodiversity conservation and environmental balance. However, their implementation faces significant challenges, especially in supporting agribusiness expansion, and their management is required for economic development while preserving natural habitats. Our study relies on data from the Rural Environmental Registry (RER), managed by the Brazilian Federal Government, to assess PPA and LR in São Paulo. We apply the geometric metrics Circularity Index, Edge Factor, Fractal Dimension, and Compactness Index to evaluate these protected areas’ shape and physical characteristics per singular and group of areas. The results highlight the correlation between the shape of these areas and their ecological functions, including their vulnerability to edge effects and habitat degradation. Moreover, the large-scale analysis correlating several areas revealed the complexity of these landscapes with different degrees of connectivity, vulnerability, and ecological efficiencies, assessing 645 districts. In conclusion, the results provide a framework for implementing protected areas that support ecosystem management and biodiversity conservation, particularly for enhancing agricultural productivity.