Brasília, June 4, 2003 (Agência Brasil - ABr) - Intensification of activities involving control and inspection at airports, in accordance with environmental legislation, especially to combat biopiracy, is the chief purpose of an effort that Ibama (Brazilian Environmental Institute) is conducting at the country's major airports where cargo is shipped, during the Week of the Environment. The task is being undertaken through a campaign to inform and orient airplane users and employees of air transportation companies.

"We want this public to be partners of Ibama, helping in the control and inspection of shipments of live cargos (wild animals), products and subproducts (genetic material) derived from animals, plants, and fish, and substances that are potentially harmful to the environment and human health," affirmed the Ibama coordinator of environmental supervision, Marcelo Marquesini. To support the campaign, posters and folders are being put in place and distributed to the population.

Ibama estimates that the illegal traffic in wild animals in Brazil amounts to over 38 million specimens per year, which leave the country through ports and airports. (DAS)