We identify and monitor High Conservation Value (HCV) areas through assessments on biological, ecological, social or cultural attributes. As forestry activities expand, we are reviewing potential HCVAs using criteria and assumptions developed by Proforest, a nonprofit that helps companies, governments and other organizations uphold their commitments to the responsible production and sourcing of agricultural commodities and forest products.

HCVAs in the state of São Paulo

• Fazenda Nova América, in Cabrália Paulista (117.74 hectares – HCVA 1): an area with a high concentration of biodiversity, including endemic, rare, and endangered species such as the Brazilian sassafras tree (Ocotea odorifera) and the hoary fox (Lycalopex vetulus).
• Fazenda Rio Verde, in Bauru (190.40 hectares – HCVA 2): home to the largest fragment of Cerradão forest within a 2 km radius, this ecosystem plays a vital role in maintaining regional biological diversity.

HCVAs in the state of Bahia

• Fazenda Santo André, in Aramari (229.83 hectares – HCVAs 1 and 3): located in a Cerrado enclave between the Caatinga and Atlantic Forest biomes, this site is used to extract non-timber forest products and has high biodiversity value despite being outside any official conservation site. It harbors species like angelim-rasteiro (Andira humilis), black-throated saltator (Saltatricula atricollis), and wild cats such as the eastern tigrina (Leopardus emiliae), jaguarundi (Herpailurus yagouaroundi), and ocelot (Leopardus pardalis). Despite its ecological importance, this area is not included in any official environmental protection list.
• Fazenda Jaboticaba,  in Jandaíra (197.05 hectares – HCVAs 1 and 3): Atlantic Forest reserve containing ecosystems such as dense rainforests, restinga and muçununga. Species documented include Turk’s cap cactus (Melocactus violaceus), white-winged cotinga (Xipholena atropurpurea), and Coimbra-Filho’s titi monkey (Callicebus coimbrai).
• Fazenda Raiz, in Água Fria (675.77 hectares – HCVAs 1 and 3): located in the agreste region of Bahia, this site protects key Caatinga species, including the only known population of the endemic eastern tigrina (Leopardus emiliae).
• RPPN Lontra, in Itanagra and Entre Rios (1,378.16 hectares – HCVAs 1, 2, and 3): this is the largest private reserve in the northern coast of Bahia, with high biodiversity value and significant herpetological and ornithological diversity. Monitored species include the bearded capuchin (Sapajus libidinosus), Rio rocket frog (Allobates olfersioides), and Fringe-backed fire-eye (Pyriglena atra). Although outside official protection zones, this extractive-use area is covered by Brazil’s National Action Plans (PANs) for Endangered Species (the maned sloth PAN and the Bristle-spined rat PAN), underscoring its conservation importance.

Bracell conducts operations adjacent to these Private Natural Heritage Reserves (RPPNs) in Bahia. RPPN Pedra do São José II, for example, is located near a eucalyptus plantation.

Bracell follows strict environmental protocols to minimize impact and preserve the ecological attributes of these high-value regions. Our management practices include continuous monitoring of fauna and flora, safeguarding ecosystem integrity, and maintaining essential environmental services.

RPPN Lontra

RPPN Lontra is the largest private environmental reserve on Bahia’s northern coast, spanning 1,378.16 hectares. It is an ombrophilous forest remnant hosting rich biodiversity, and the most diverse herpetological and ornithological area monitored by Bracell in Bahia. This area is included in Brazil’s National Plan for Endangered Species, underscoring its critical role in biodiversity conservation.

In 2024, Bracell built an accessible ecological trail within the reserve for scheduled community visits.