A coalition of 100 individuals, including 21 bishops and scientists, criticized Brazil’s oil exploration plans near the Amazon, calling it “ecological suicide.” They urge reductions in fossil fuel production, citing significant risks to local ecosystems and climate change. The group’s opposition highlights tensions between environmental responsibility and government policies, ahead of the upcoming COP30 conference.
On February 18, a coalition of 100 individuals, including 21 bishops, scientists, environmentalists, and social activists, issued a public letter criticizing the Brazilian government’s plans to explore oil near the Amazon River’s mouth. They warned that such oil exploration near Amapá could lead to “ecological suicide” and urged for a significant reduction in fossil fuel production and consumption. This initiative highlights the concerns regarding the impact on local ecosystems and climate change, as oil production would exacerbate greenhouse gas emissions.
Bishop Vicente de Paula Ferreira, a vocal critic of environmental degradation, emphasized that the government’s approach is based on an outdated capitalist mindset favoring unlimited growth. He argued for urgent protection of remaining natural resources. Additionally, Fr. Dario Bossi from the commission that organized the letter stated they aimed for the Church to be a key player in this environmental discourse, showcasing a diverse alliance opposing the government’s plans.
The proposal for oil exploration in the Equatorial Margin region, which stretches from Rio Grande do Norte to Amapá, has faced challenges since 2014. Petrobras has repeatedly sought permission from Brazil’s environmental agency, Ibama, to explore these reserves, which became particularly contentious in 2023 under President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. His administration has positioned itself as a champion of environmental protection following the previous government’s policies.
Despite Lula’s environmental commitments, there appears to be a clash between his government and Ibama regarding the oil exploration plans. Luiz Marques, a historian and one of the letter’s organizers, pointed out that this biologically rich region is crucial for its phytoplankton, mangroves, and coral reefs that help absorb atmospheric carbon. He underscored Ibama’s risk assessment of potential ecological damage from oil spills in this sensitive area.
The letter also highlighted the government’s contradictory actions, such as Lula’s engagement with OPEC+ and plans to elevate Brazil’s oil production ranking. Marques criticized this stance as “progressive denialism”, arguing that financial benefits proposed from oil production do not translate to local aid post-extraction. Many believe that historical outcomes show communities suffer post-drilling disasters.
With COP30 approaching in 2025, concerns were raised regarding Brazil’s conflicting environmental policies amid plans for oil exploration and mining on Indigenous lands. Both Ferreira and Bossi voiced skepticism about the outcomes of COP30, emphasizing the need for continued international discussions on climate change. They advocate for alternative economic strategies focused on supporting local economies over fossil fuel reliance.
In their fight against oil exploration, the bishops’ commission is promoting mining-free and oil-free zones, primarily in the Amazon, to protect this vital ecosystem. Bossi expressed concern that Brazil is losing its potential leadership in climate issues on the international stage. Marques stressed the urgency of raising public awareness about the severe environmental crises at hand, calling for immediate action to prevent worsening ecological and social futures.
The collective efforts of bishops, scientists, and activists against oil exploration in Brazil underscore the intertwining issues of environmental sustainability and socio-economic justice. Their public letter reflects a commitment to challenging policies that risk ecological damage while advocating for alternative models that prioritize the health of the planet and its communities. With important discussions ahead at COP30, the need for a united and urgent response to climate change remains critical.
Original Source: www.ncronline.org
