in 1993 the shore of sepetiba bay was declared an 'área de especial interesse ambiental' (area of special environmental interest), formalizing the protection granted to local flora and fauna, specifically to promote the survival of endangered species and the restoration of the local mangroves and forests.

challenged by pollution and too much organic material in the water, sepetiba bay is currently undergoing a variety of treatments expected to restore all the beaches in the area to their former brilliance.

often unsuitable for water sports and swimming, sepetiba bay's islands are nonetheless a precious source of thought and inspiration.  

this link shows  sepetiba bay on a wikimapia  - the link may be best seen using google chrome, as it might not open correctly with other browsers.