A coalition of scientists, environmentalists, and 21 bishops condemned Brazil’s oil exploration near the Amazon River, calling it “ecological suicide”. They advocate reducing fossil fuel production to protect local ecosystems and combat climate change. Despite government assurances for environmental protection, recent actions raise concerns about a commitment to sustainability. As Brazil prepares for COP30, the need for ecological integrity in policies is paramount.
On February 18, 2023, a coalition of 100 scientists, environmentalists, social activists, and 21 Catholic bishops publicly condemned the Brazilian government’s oil exploration plans near the Amazon River’s mouth. They described the proposal as “ecological suicide” and urged a significant decrease in fossil fuel production and consumption. The signatories argue that such activities threaten local ecosystems and perpetuate an economic model that excessively contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change.
Bishop Vicente de Paula Ferreira, a vocal advocate against extractive practices, emphasizes the limitations of the planet’s resources, stating, “The government’s rhetoric is based on a capitalistic mindset of unlimited profits. But the planet doesn’t have resources for unlimited growth anymore. We have to protect what’s left.” The letter aims to showcase a broad alliance challenging the government’s projects, thereby strengthening the campaign against environmental degradation.
Oil exploration in Brazil’s Equatorial Margin, extending from Rio Grande do Norte to Amapá, has been persistently pursued since 2014 by the state oil company Petrobras. Despite efforts faced with political opposition, including in 2023 during President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s administration, concerns regarding environmental destruction have resurfaced. Lula’s administration has promised to enhance Brazilian environmental protections, appointing conservationist Marina Silva as Minister of the Environment.
The environmental agency Ibama has classified Petrobras’s proposed operation as high risk, citing that Amapá’s coastal region is ecologically vibrant, home to significant phytoplankton and coral reefs. Luiz Marques, an organizer of the letter, stresses that exploitation could have dire consequences, adding that the agency documented 18 potential negative impacts of the project, including the rapid spread of oil spills.
Despite Petrobras claiming that it has addressed Ibama’s requirements for the project, Lula criticized the agency for its delay in processing the application. The letter pointed out discrepancies between Lula’s promises regarding environmental protection and his administration’s actions, noting his government’s support for Brazil’s increased oil production and participation in OPEC+. Activists like Marques assert the need for genuine adherence to scientific recommendations rather than pursuing outdated economic strategies.
The Catholic bishops’ commission, with other organizations, is raising awareness about Brazil’s environmental emergency leading up to the COP30 meeting in 2025. They criticize the juxtaposition of hosting this significant climate conference while simultaneously seeking oil exploration approvals in the Amazon, with some congressional members proposing to loosen mining regulations on Indigenous lands.
Fr. Dario Bossi expressed skepticism about COP30’s efficacy, indicating it can only succeed if it remains a forum for international discussions. He urges for heightened public engagement on environmental issues and resistance against damaging projects like oil exploration, advocating for sustainable alternatives to balance community needs with ecological conservation. The commission promotes the idea of creating mining-free and oil-free zones, particularly in the biodiverse Amazon region, suggesting the government support local economies, such as Brazil nut production, that foster food sovereignty, instead of pursuing oil extraction.
In summary, a coalition of bishops, scientists, and activists has publicly opposed the Brazilian government’s oil exploration in ecologically sensitive areas. They argue that such actions contradict environmental protection goals and risk severe ecological consequences. The message emphasizes the urgent need to consider sustainable development options that prioritize ecological integrity over exploitative economic pursuits. As Brazil prepares to host COP30, the stakes for effective climate action have never been higher.
Original Source: www.ncronline.org
