Forest-biased terminology does not help to include open ecosystems in conservation policies

Abstract

Inadequate terminology, in particular the use of the term ‘Forest Code’ for the main conservation law and of the term ‘deforestation’ for loss of all types of ecosystems, in the conservation debate in Brazil confuses the public and risks jeopardizing conservation goals. We urge scientists, conservationists and government agencies to use adequate terminology as not to reinforce already existing biases in conservation and to better inform the public about the need to conserve all types of ecosystems.