Bishops and Activists Unite Against Oil Exploration in Brazil

On February 18, a hundred individuals, including 21 bishops, criticized Brazilian oil exploration plans near the Amazon as “ecological suicide,” urging a reduction in fossil fuel consumption. They argue that such activities threaten local biomes and contribute to climate change. The bishops’ commission aims to raise awareness ahead of COP30, advocating for mining and oil-free zones in the Amazon.

A coalition of 100 individuals, including 21 bishops, scientists, and environmentalists, released a letter on February 18, opposing the Brazilian government’s oil exploration plans near the Amazon River’s mouth. The letter condemns the initiative as “ecological suicide” and urges immediate action to decrease fossil fuel production and consumption, stressing the risks posed to local ecosystems and the global climate from such activities.

The signatories warn that oil drilling in the Amapá region jeopardizes various local biomes and perpetuates an economically destructive model exacerbating greenhouse gas emissions. Bishop Vicente de Paula Ferreira argues against a profit-driven framework, advocating for the protection of Earth’s limited resources.

Fr. Dario Bossi, an influential figure in the initiative, noted the importance of church involvement and the broader coalition opposing the government’s projects. The quest for oil in the Equatorial Margin—a region spanning Brazil and surrounding countries—dates back to 2014 when Petrobras sought government approval to explore oil reserves in this sensitive area.

The Lula administration’s approach to environmental policies has faced challenges, particularly after the detrimental actions of former President Jair Bolsonaro. Marina Silva, a veteran conservationist and current Minister of the Environment, previously collaborated with Lula but has expressed disagreements regarding oil exploration. Her ministry’s refusal to authorize Petrobras’ exploration attempts accentuated the division within the government.

Luiz Marques, an organizer of the open letter, elaborated that the exploration area is ecologically rich, with significant biodiversity that captures atmospheric carbon. Production activities could result in widespread environmental damage, including rapid oil diffusion in marine currents affecting broader regions. Ibama criticized Petrobras for lacking vital spill containment information, leading to a high-risk categorization of the project.

Lula’s administration claims that oil revenues will support the poorest communities and fund energy transitions. However, critics highlight that historical data suggests minimal investment in public welfare from oil profits, with significant returns primarily benefiting shareholders. Bishop Ferreira warns that oil exploitation inevitably harms impacted communities, as past experiences show.

The bishops’ commission calls for heightened awareness regarding Brazil’s environmental crisis, particularly with COP30 approaching. They emphasize the contradiction of pursuing oil exploration while co-hosting a global climate conference, further complicated by Congressional attempts to liberate mining in Indigenous territories.

Fr. Bossi expresses skepticism concerning COP30’s efficacy, stressing the need for international dialogue and negotiation. He believes that Brazil should prioritize local economies and environmental sustainability over oil projects, advocating for “mining-free” and “oil-free” zones, especially in the Amazon. Through these actions, the commission aspires to mitigate the severity of ecological threats and promote food sovereignty for local communities.

A public letter signed by 100 individuals, including 21 bishops, critiques Brazil’s plans for oil exploration near the Amazon River, labeling it as having detrimental ecological impacts. The signatories stress the urgent need to transition away from fossil fuels, highlighting previous misuses of oil profits. As COP30 approaches, the commission calls for awareness and action against exploitation in order to protect the environment.

Original Source: www.ncronline.org