As an attempt to contribute to the debate on the use of Brazilian’ ecosystems, this article discusses elements related to the production of knowledge on Brazil's ecosystems and natural wealth, aspects of degradation, as well as science’s limitations and potentials related to the development of research on preservation and conservational use of Brazilian ecosystems and their natural resources. This analysis was based on references from authors linked to Geography and Political Ecology, and our experience in the development of research and orientation related to environmental issues. It was concluded that, in addition to the scientific and technical dimension, the political dimension must be included in the debate due to its strong influence on the causes and consequences of Brazilian ecosystems’ uses.