Rio, 25 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - Speaking at the Rio+10 Brazil seminar yesterday, president Fernando Henrique Cardoso said that important progress has been made domestically by Brazil in environmental protection. Cardoso cited greater public awareness of the problem and more participation by the business community in Sustainable Development projects.

Cardoso also pointed out that a series of laws, projects and programs have made efforts at sustainable development more efficient. He called the Agenda 21 an important element in that effort. Cardoso cited the Environment Crime law, the Conservation Unit System law, the creation of the National Water Agency and the National Forest Program. (AB)