Análise do conteúdo energético, de gases de efeito estufa e de água do comércio internacional brasileiro

Abstract

International trade is an important source of income for countries. However, it is known that the terms of trade can be harmful to countries that export raw materials. This disadvantage is not restricted to economic aspects, as some activities degrade the environment and may not compensate for foreign exchange earnings. Thus, the objective of this study is to investigate the environmental impacts resulting from Brazilian foreign trade in relation to water consumption, energy use and the emission of greenhouse gases. As a result, the study points out that Brazil is a net exporter of embedded energy, carbon and water. Furthermore, it appears that Asia is the economic partner whose increase in Brazilian exports has a major environmental impact. In contrast, countries in South America, North America and Central America have a lower effect on energy, water and greenhouse gas emissions. This scenario is the result of the export basket to Asia, which has a strong participation of commodities. In the case of South America, North America, and Oceania, on the other hand, Brazil exports more industrialized products (with greater technological content). Therefore, the strategy to determine the best commercial partners for Brazil should also be based on these environmental aspects.