A coalition of 100, including 21 bishops, condemned Brazil’s oil exploration plans near the Amazon River mouth, labeling it “ecological suicide.” They urge reductions in fossil fuel dependency, citing risks to ecosystems and climate change contributions. Amidst debates, the government prepares for COP30 while facing criticism over conflicting environmental promises.
A coalition of 100 signatories, comprising scientists, social activists, environmentalists, and 21 bishops, publicly condemned the Brazilian government’s proposal for oil exploration near the Amazon River mouth. Released on February 18, the letter describes such exploration in Amapá as “ecological suicide” and urges a significant reduction in fossil fuel production and consumption. The signatories highlight the potential risks to local ecosystems and their contribution to climate change through increased carbon emissions.
Among the prominent voices in this movement is Bishop Vicente de Paula Ferreira from the Diocese of Livramento de Nossa Senhora. He is vocal about the detrimental impact of extractive industries on traditional communities and the environment: “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.”
Fr. Dario Bossi, a key supporter of the letter, emphasized the importance of church leadership in addressing the government’s controversial plans. He remarked, “It shows that it’s not only a social segment that’s criticizing the government’s project, but a complex alliance with different actors.” The letter reflects a united front against the oil prospecting endeavors in what is known as the Equatorial Margin, an ecologically rich area.
Petrobras, Brazil’s state oil company, has sought permission to explore these reserves since 2014. However, significant opposition has emerged alongside promises from President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to restore Brazil’s environmental protection policies following Jair Bolsonaro’s tenure. Marina Silva, the newly appointed Minister of Environment and Climate Change, has also resisted granting Petrobras authorization due to environmental concerns regarding potential oil spills and their extensive repercussions.
Professor Luiz Marques from the State University of Campinas expressed his concerns regarding the ecological significance of Amapá and the severe risks associated with oil exploration. He stated, “The Ibama categorized the operation as one of maximum risk, according to their criteria. That’s an extremely rich region from a biological point of view.” The environmental agency has highlighted 18 negative potential impacts, including rapid oil spread across marine currents.
Despite Petrobras asserting that it has addressed necessary information for project approval, Lula’s government faces criticism for not aligning with environmental commitments. The letter also mentions Lula’s participation in OPEC+ and the push to become the world’s fourth-largest oil producer, marked by contradictions to his previous environmental pledges. Marques noted the disconnection between recognizing climate science and continuing outdated oil agendas, labeling it a form of “progressive denialism.”
The Catholic bishops’ commission continues to educate the public regarding Brazil’s environmental emergency as the nation prepares to host COP30 in 2025. Father Bossi expressed skepticism about the conference’s outcomes but remains hopeful about engaging more people in ecological discussions and finding alternatives to oil development. “The Amazon as a whole should be one of those free zones, especially when we see the impacts of oil drilling on the rainforest in Peru or Ecuador,” he added, advocating for a re-examination of Brazil’s approach to economic development.
In summary, the opposition against the proposed oil exploration in the Amazon underscores the need for a united societal effort against environmentally destructive policies. Promoting sustainable alternatives could safeguard biodiversity and empower local communities while redirecting focus from fossil fuel dependency.
In conclusion, the opposition from a diverse group of signatories, including bishops and environmental advocates, reinforces the urgency of addressing the environmental implications of proposed oil exploration in Brazil. The risks to local ecosystems and the climate highlight the necessity for a transition away from fossil fuels. Through active dialogue and advocacy for sustainable alternatives, stakeholders aim to raise awareness and challenge damaging governmental policies.
Original Source: www.ncronline.org
