Why are we failing to protect the Amazon rainforest? - The Climate Question, BBC World Service

The first paragraph introduces the story of Antonio Sena, who survived a plane crash in the Amazon rainforest and managed to walk out after 36 days by observing and mimicking the diet of monkeys. It also touches on the illegal activities like gold mining, logging, and ranching that contribute to the Amazon's deforestation, with 99% of it being illegal as reported in 2019. The Amazon's significance in combating climate change through carbon sequestration is acknowledged, and the focus shifts to the politics of deforestation, particularly in Brazil, where most of the Amazon is located. The narrative includes insights from Manuela Andreoni, a journalist for the New York Times, on the disconnect between Brazilians and the Amazon due to its remoteness and lack of public information on land ownership, leading to an illegal land market and deforestation.

This paragraph delves into the economic motivations behind deforestation, emphasizing that it is driven by profit rather than ignorance. It highlights the voices of those who clear the land for a living and the powerful individuals who benefit from these activities, often operating from a distance. The discussion includes the risks faced by environmental activists and indigenous peoples who oppose deforestation, with references to the murder and disappearance of activists reported by Global Witness. The narrative also covers the environmental challenges faced by the city of Manaus, which is suffering from catastrophic flooding, and the political implications of the region's support for President Jair Bolsonaro, whose policies could exacerbate deforestation and climate change.

The third paragraph discusses the political dynamics surrounding deforestation in Brazil, with a focus on President Bolsonaro's policies that favor development over environmental protection. It outlines the president's actions to deregulate land occupation and his reduction of environmental agency budgets and personnel. The narrative also addresses allegations of corruption within the government, including a criminal investigation into the environment minister for his role in an international scheme to smuggle illegal timber. The impact of these policies on Brazil's international reputation and the suspension of the Amazon Fund, a Norwegian initiative, are also highlighted, along with the global response to the Amazon fires, including reactions from France's President Macron and tensions with Brazil.

This paragraph examines the international and domestic pressures on Brazil to address deforestation. It discusses the potential impact of European supermarkets' threats to boycott Brazilian products and the concerns of Brazilian agribusiness leaders about the country's reputation. The narrative includes comments from Marcello Britto, president of the Brazilian agribusiness association, on the importance of the 'Brazil' brand and the negative impact of deforestation. It also touches on the upcoming elections in Brazil and the potential for international political pressure to influence Brazil's environmental policies, especially with the change in the US administration and President Biden's focus on climate and the environment.

The final paragraph explores the concept of sustainable development in the Amazon, with suggestions from Virgilio Viana, a former environment minister, on creating jobs that add value to the Amazon's natural resources, such as cosmetics and medicinal products. It contrasts this with the destructive jobs created by illegal activities like gold mining. The narrative also considers the political challenges faced by President Bolsonaro, who needs the support of those benefiting from environmental deregulation. The paragraph concludes with a reflection on the ongoing struggle to understand and protect the Amazon, emphasizing the need for political will and sustainable economic strategies.