A coalition of 100 individuals, including 21 bishops, publicly opposed President Lula’s plans for oil exploration near the Amazon River, labeling it as ecological suicide. They urged reductions in fossil fuel usage due to environmental risks. Key figures underscored the harmful economic and ecological consequences of oil extraction in a biologically vital region and called for a paradigm shift towards sustainable practices, reflecting a broader coalition against these policies.
On February 18, a coalition of 100 individuals, including 21 bishops, scientists, environmentalists, and social activists, issued a public letter opposing President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s plans for oil exploration near the Amazon River’s mouth. The group labeled such endeavors as “ecological suicide,” stressing the need for urgent reductions in fossil fuel usage due to potential detrimental effects on local ecosystems and ongoing carbon emissions that exacerbate global warming.
The bishops emphasized that the government’s approach is entrenched in a profit-driven ideology that fails to recognize the planet’s finite resources. Bishop Vicente de Paula Ferreira noted, “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, advocating for the church’s involvement, insisted that the diverse coalition reflects a broader condemnation of the administration’s project, signifying unity among various stakeholders. He underscored that the situation echoes a significant alliance of voices against the environmentally harmful plans.
The proposed oil exploration targets the Equatorial Margin, a biologically rich area spanning the Brazilian coast from Rio Grande do Norte to Amapá. Petrobras has sought government approval for exploration licenses since 2014. As scrutiny increased, particularly during Lula’s latest presidency, significant opposition has emerged against these proposals aimed at reigniting oil production.
Luiz Marques, a history professor and key organizer of the letter, provided insight into the ecological significance of Amapá’s coast, which is abundant in phytoplankton and features one of the largest mangrove ecosystems globally. He warned that oil spills in this vital region would have devastating and rapid consequences, threatening both local marine life and broader environmental health.
The environmental agency Ibama deemed Petrobras’s proposals high-risk, citing failures to adequately address oil spill contingency plans. The letter outlined 18 potential adverse impacts that could arise should exploration proceed, with severe implications for both local and international coasts.
President Lula has exclusively framed the project as exploratory rather than aimed at production, though many critiques suggest otherwise. He expressed frustration regarding the delays in Ibama’s evaluation process but remains committed to pursuing oil development as a means to support Brazil’s poorer populations.
Critics argue this approach represents a flawed economic strategy, with minimal benefits to local communities and most revenues benefiting external shareholders. Ferreira warned, “It is a great mistake. We know there’s nothing left for the people after oil drilling and mining devastate their territories.”
The bishops’ commission is actively raising awareness regarding Brazil’s environmental crises in anticipation of the 2025 COP30 conference to be held in Belém. Concurrently, there is concern that Brazil’s initiatives, including oil exploration, contradict its environmental commitments.
Fr. Bossi expressed skepticism regarding COP30’s potential outcomes amid widespread climate denial. However, he remains hopeful about enhancing public discourse on national environmental challenges while attempting to resist oil exploration projects in the Amazon, advocating instead for sustainable local economic alternatives.
In conclusion, the letter underscores a call for a paradigm shift away from destructive exploration projects towards conservation-oriented alternatives that better serve local communities while protecting Brazil’s biodiverse environment. The collective voice from diverse sectors signifies an urgent demand for environmental accountability and integrity in light of Brazil’s pressing ecological crises.
The public letter issued by 100 concerned individuals, including bishops, emphasizes the dire need to halt oil exploration projects near the Amazon River. It raises salient points regarding the ecological risks and systemic failures that prioritize profit over environmental health. The collective efforts represent a growing alliance advocating for responsible stewardship of Brazil’s natural resources and a commitment to sustainable development practices.
Original Source: www.ncronline.org
