Nestled in the heart of Brazil’s vibrant Amazon rainforest, the city of Belém is making headlines as it takes center stage in the fight against climate change. Recently, this vibrant city has welcomed delegates from across South America to the Amazon Summit, a landmark gathering aimed at addressing the region’s environmental challenges head-on. President Lula da Silva, a driving force behind the summit, envisions it as a milestone in the quest to combat deforestation, crime, and climate change.
This Amazon Summit, the first of its kind in 45 years, brings together leaders from eight South American countries that share a stake in the Amazon. With lively folkloric dance routines like the “Boi de mascara” welcoming delegates at the international airport, the festive spirit in Belém captures the urgency and significance of the occasion. The city’s enthusiasm is not just for this summit alone; it’s also a dress rehearsal for the grand event of 2025 when Belém is set to host COP30, the global climate conference.
Belém’s strategic location as the capital of Pará, a state plagued by the highest deforestation rates in Brazil, underscores the importance of these gatherings. The region, often overlooked, is stepping into the spotlight to champion the cause of environmental conservation. President Lula da Silva, determined to reverse the alarming deforestation trend, has pledged to achieve zero deforestation by 2030.
For Robson Gonçalves Machado, a resident of the riverbank community on Ilha do Marajó, the summit signifies hope for change. Robson’s home, a tranquil paradise crisscrossed by waterways, has been threatened by land grabbers and industrial interests seeking to exploit its resources. But the tide is turning. The summit’s discussions extend beyond diplomacy; they delve into initiatives like the carbon credit market that offers communities like Robson’s a path towards sustainable development.
Carbon credits, a novel approach to combat climate change, have taken root in Pará. These credits, equivalent to a tonne of carbon dioxide, are traded on a market valued at a staggering $210 billion per year. Carbon credit companies, once accused of questionable practices, are now partnering with local communities. The focus is on providing support, education, and sustainable forestry practices that empower communities to safeguard their lands.
While the road ahead isn’t without challenges, the Amazon Summit and the impending COP30 present a united front against deforestation and climate change. These events symbolize a region’s determination to reclaim its voice and protect its precious ecosystems. As Belém dances to the rhythm of change, the world watches, and it is up to all of us to ensure that these promises bear fruit, and the Amazon’s legacy remains intact for generations to come.