In this paper, we analyze the global environmental problems within the concept of planetary boundaries, along with the last advances in natural sciences. In this context, our aim is exploring the role of Brazil with regard to the governance of a safe operating space for humanity, evaluating how the country provides its huge physical environmental capital with specific policies directed towards a low carbon green economy (LCGE), both domestically and in the international domain. To achieve this goal, first, we discuss LCGE on a conceptual basis as a paradigm of development compatible with a safe operating space for humanity; second, we analyze Rio+20 from the perspective of the global governance of planetary boundaries and the Brazilian role in the Summit; and, finally, we provide a diagnosis of the Brazilian status with regard to the new paradigm of development. As conclusions from the analysis, we highlight the growing distance between the acceleration of interdependence problems - especially the definition of a safe operating space for humanity - and the current global governance mechanisms, derived from an international system which is blocked and dominated by conservative forces. The frustrating outcome of Rio+20 is a clear evidence of this gap. According to this dynamics, Brazil has the potential to be a key actor with regard to the governance of planetary boundaries, due to its huge physical environmental capital. However, the little advance of LCGE in the country hampers this action ability and turns it into an underachiever environmental power.
Planetary boundaries; Global environmental governance; Brazil; Economy; Low carbon green
