Target: Davi Alcolumbre, President of Federal Senate of Brazil
Goal: Do not weaken environmental regulations related to Amazon forest.
The future of the world’s “lungs,” the Amazon rainforest, has remained in limbo for months as Brazilian politicians fight over controversial new measures that would weaken protections for the iconic ecosystem. Both the country’s House of Representatives and Senate passed a hotly contested bill that makes it much easier for companies to raze and develop large portions of the forest, with the government’s expedited seal of approval. Environmental advocates, including Brazil’s environment minister, have decried the legislation and dubbed it the “devastation bill.”
Companies and project developers would no longer have to go through a rigorous regulatory process. Entire reviews of ongoing projects like highway construction through the forest would also be eliminated. And in order to be granted a license for development in the forest, most companies would merely have to declare their intentions online and almost immediately be granted the license, with no safeguards in place. Critics charge the law will lead to increased pollution, deforestation, and water contamination.
Despite the united protest of 300 nonprofit environmental organizations and a veto from the president on dozens of provisions in the bill, politicians could still override the veto and force their damaging dictates upon the Amazon and its inhabitants. Sign the petition below to demand these leaders rethink a decision that could have ramifications for generations to come.
PETITION LETTER:
Dear Senator Alcolumbre,
Brazil has made a commitment to cut CO2 emissions by as much as two-thirds. This nation will host the UN climate summit, where leaders will likely set more lofty goals. As over 300 nonprofits, your environment minister, your president, and legions of citizens have reinforced, the “devastation bill” in its current form is an affirmative rejection of all these goals. Its criticisms can no longer be ignored.
Brazil is the guardian of the “lungs of the world.” With this power comes tremendous responsibility. Do not overlook this responsibility. Make the changes needed to ensure the longevity and protection of the vital Amazon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name Here]
Photo Credit: Daniele Gidsicki
