Minister Marina Silva Confirms Technical Review for Equatorial Margin Project
Brazil’s Environment Minister Marina Silva confirmed that the ecological licensing decision for the Equatorial Margin oil project will be based on Ibama’s technical analysis. Following President Lula’s criticism of Ibama’s delay, Silva emphasized that the responsibility for the agency’s efficiency lies with the President and reiterated Brazil’s commitment to a renewable energy transition.
On February 25, Brazil’s Environment and Climate Change Minister, Marina Silva, asserted that the environmental licensing decision regarding the oil exploration project in the Amazon River’s estuary, known as the Equatorial Margin, will rely on detailed technical assessments by the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (Ibama). Minister Silva emphasized that whether the outcome is favorable or not, it will be a technical decision made by Ibama officials.
This reassurance comes after President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva expressed dissatisfaction with Ibama’s perceived delay in reviewing Petrobras’s request for exploratory drilling. The President had suggested that Ibama’s actions seemed to undermine the government’s objectives. Minister Silva confirmed that the responsibility for ensuring the agency operates efficiently lies with President Lula.
Minister Silva has been committed to protecting Ibama from external pressures, including those from the Ministry of Mines and Energy, Petrobras, and legislators from northern states. With Brazil set to host the 30th United Nations Conference on Climate Change (COP30), there are increasing demands for the government to adopt a solid stance on the climate emergency, particularly regarding fossil fuel use.
During the event on February 25, Minister Silva reiterated the importance of transitioning to renewable energy sources and reducing fossil fuel consumption. She called for a significant increase in renewable energy supply and greater efficiency, stating that Brazil’s energy mix is already relatively clean compared to other nations.
The minister also underscored Brazil’s commitment to the “Mission 1.5” initiative, which aims to limit global temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, as per the Paris Agreement. In her remarks, she noted Brazil’s advantages in contributing to this global effort and the need for international cooperation in tackling climate change.
At the same event, COP30 CEO Ana Toni highlighted the challenges faced in achieving effective multilateral actions for climate change, mentioning the difficulties posed by the current international landscape, including political situations in the United States. She underscored the importance of collaboration in the climate adaptation agenda amidst these challenges.
In summary, Minister Marina Silva has reaffirmed that the decision on the Equatorial Margin project will be firmly based on technical evaluations by Ibama, directing focus on environmental integrity. Amid calls for robust climate action as Brazil prepares for COP30, the government aims to balance energy development with ecological responsibility. Minister Silva’s advocacy for renewable energy and a cleaner energy mix aligns with Brazil’s broader climate commitments.
Original Source: valorinternational.globo.com
