As in other emerging economies, economic expansion, urbanisation and rising income levels have also meant increased environmental pressures from growing demand for land, water, materials, energy and transport, as well as increased pollution and waste generation. Managing the natural asset base sustainably and equitably and decoupling economic growth from environmental pressures is paramount if Brazil is to achieve resilient and inclusive economic development. Renewables, mainly hydropower and biofuels, accounted for more than 40% of total primary energy supply in 2012, one of the highest shares in the world (Figure 1).