The construction of a four-lane highway through the Amazon rainforest in Belem, Brazil, has sparked outrage as it threatens vital ecosystems just months before COP30. Critics argue this project undermines climate goals, while local residents like Claudio Verrequete express concerns over displacement and loss of livelihood. The initiative contradicts Brazil’s role as a climate summit host and raises serious ecological fears.
The Amazon rainforest is recognized as crucial in combating climate change. Recently, Brazilians have witnessed the beginning of a four-lane highway construction that extends through thousands of acres in protected areas of the rainforest, igniting frustration among local residents and environmental advocates, especially as the city of Belem prepares to host the COP30 climate summit in November.
This highway project aims to reduce expected traffic congestion during the summit, which anticipates over 50,000 attendees, including global leaders. State authorities promote this initiative as an example of ‘sustainable’ development, despite significant opposition from critics who argue it undermines the conference’s objectives of environmental preservation.
Critics highlight the Amazon’s essential role in sequestering carbon dioxide and supporting biodiversity, underscoring the necessity of maintaining this vital ecosystem. The ongoing construction has resulted in vast deforestation, with piles of logs littering the land that once showcased the vibrant rainforest environment.
The highway stretches over 8 miles and requires not only the removal of numerous trees but also the drainage of wetlands within protected territories. Local resident Claudio Verrequete has expressed deep personal concerns, as his livelihood of harvesting açaí berries has been ravaged. He faces insecurity about further encroachment into their territory and has reported a lack of compensation for those affected.
Moreover, the design of the highway has raised alarms among scientists. They emphasize that it fragments the ecosystem and obstructs wildlife movement, declaiming the construction as an ironic contradiction to Brazil’s role as a host for a climate summit. Professor Silvia Sardinha, a prominent researcher, illustrates the negative consequences of such human activities on local fauna, particularly the increase in wildlife injuries caused by vehicular strikes.
The construction of a highway through the Amazon rainforest stands as a paradox to Brazil’s commitment to climate change efforts, especially leading up to an international climate summit. Local communities and environmental experts alike warn of the harmful implications for biodiversity and ecosystem health, highlighting the necessity for preservation over development. The controversy raises essential questions about Brazil’s environmental responsibilities and the genuine intentions behind hosting climate discussions.
Original Source: www.news18.com
