Raoni Metuktire, an influential Brazilian tribal leader, is opposing the government’s plan for an oil project at the Amazon’s mouth and urging President Lula to halt it. With COP30 approaching, he stresses the importance of Indigenous representation in environmental discussions and raises awareness about the destructive impacts of climate change on his community. Raoni remains critical of former president Jair Bolsonaro’s climate stance, supporting legal actions against him.
Raoni Metuktire, a prominent Brazilian environmental activist and tribal chief, is challenging the government’s plans for a massive oil project at the Amazon River’s mouth. As Brazil prepares to host the UN’s COP30 climate talks in Belém this November, Raoni plans to urge President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to halt the project proposed by Petrobras, the state-owned oil company.
The Brazilian environmental agency IBAMA is currently considering whether to grant Petrobras an exploration license in the offshore Equatorial Margin area. Despite intentions to position Brazil as a leader in combating climate change, Lula supports oil exploration for economic growth.
Renowned for his activism since the 1980s, Raoni, who is believed to be around 90 and represents the Kayapo people, has consistently fought against deforestation. He is widely recognized and has been nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize. In a recent interview, Raoni discussed his upcoming meeting with Lula and expressed his concerns about environmental protection.
Safer effective dialogue at COP30, Raoni plans to discuss climate agreements with world leaders. He emphasizes the need for humanity to coexist harmoniously with nature, addressing the immediate dangers of environmental destruction. Raoni also conveyed disappointments regarding Lula’s past decisions, urging him to involve Indigenous voices in environmental policy-making.
Raoni is particularly alarmed by deforestation and water pollution impacts, resulting in negative effects on food supply and lifestyle for his community. He called upon non-Indigenous people to recognize the adverse effects of environmental degradation, warning of severe consequences. He expressed serious concerns regarding Jair Bolsonaro, the former president known for denying climate change. Raoni reported Bolsonaro’s actions to the International Criminal Court and supports legal consequences for what he sees as a lack of humanitarian consideration.
In summary, Raoni Metuktire stands at the forefront of environmental activism in Brazil, challenging the government’s oil exploration initiatives while preparing for COP30 discussions on climate change. His advocacy emphasizes the integration of Indigenous perspectives in environmental policy and the urgent need to acknowledge and combat deforestation, pollution, and the broader impacts of climate change. Raoni’s call for unity and harmony with nature serves as a crucial reminder for all stakeholders involved in the fight against climate change.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
