Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Brazil's President, is set to address the United Nations General Assembly on September 26, 2023. His anticipated focus on global climate action comes at a time when Brazil faces significant environmental challenges, particularly in the Amazon rainforest.
The Amazon, covering approximately 5.5 million square kilometers, is experiencing a surge in fires. In August 2023, 38,000 blazes were recorded, the highest for that month since 2010. September appears to be following a similar trend. These fires are affecting air quality in numerous cities, including São Paulo, located thousands of kilometers away.
Lula's administration has implemented measures to combat these environmental issues. On September 22, 2023, he announced fines of up to $1,800 per hectare for individuals caught setting forest fires. Additionally, the government pledged to allocate up to 500 million reais ($90 million) for nationwide fire-fighting efforts.
The Amazon rainforest, estimated to be over 55 million years old, plays a crucial role in global climate regulation. It produces about 20% of the world's oxygen and absorbs approximately 2 billion tons of CO2 annually. However, deforestation in the region has increased by 29% from 2021 to 2022, releasing about 1 billion tons of carbon each year.
Lula's current term, which began in January 2023, has shown mixed results in environmental protection. While illegal deforestation in the Amazon decreased by 22% in the first eight months, the administration faces criticism for its handling of environmental challenges.
"Lula has always attended international gatherings with a lot to say, with many calling him a champion on the environment. This time that won't ring true."
The government's approach to environmental and energy policies has been inconsistent. On September 25, 2023, Energy Minister Alexandre Silveira expressed confidence in tapping offshore oil reserves near the Amazon, contradicting environmental protection goals.
The Amazon's significance extends beyond climate regulation. It is home to about 10% of the world's known biodiversity, over 40,000 plant species, and more than 400 indigenous tribes. The region contains one-fifth of the world's freshwater and influences rainfall patterns across South America and globally.
Environmentalists have voiced concerns about the government's actions. Tica Minami, during a protest outside an oil conference, emphasized the need for consistent environmental policies across all branches of government and corporate responsibility.
As Lula prepares to address the UN, his administration's environmental record will be under scrutiny. The challenge lies in reconciling Brazil's economic interests with the urgent need to protect the Amazon, a vital ecosystem that has seen over 2,000 new species discovered between 2014 and 2018.
The world will be watching to see how Brazil balances its role as custodian of the Amazon with its development aspirations, and whether Lula's call for global climate action will be backed by concrete measures at home.