A new highway is under construction in Brazil that will cut through the delicate Amazon rainforest, all for the upcoming COP30 climate summit set to take place in Belém. Promoting easier access for over 50,000 attendees, including global leaders, this four-lane road raises alarm among environmentalists and locals alike
While the state government labels it a "sustainable" initiative, many see the project as a contradiction to the summit’s goals, which prioritize climate action and conservation. The highway, extending 13km (8 miles), is currently disrupting local ecosystems and wildlife habitats.
Claudio Verequete, a local community member, laments the loss of his açaí harvest due to deforestation, stating, "Everything was destroyed," and he fears further encroachment on his land. Coupled with the disruption of wildlife migration, experts warn that the highway may lead to more deforestation, leaving vulnerable species in peril.
Debates regarding the summit's promises of environmental protection versus real local impacts unfold, highlighting the voices of impacted residents who feel unheard in these discussions. While the state government plans many infrastructure upgrades, including wildlife crossings and modern facilities, locals question who truly benefits.
Business owners in Belém see potential growth from these developments; however, skepticism remains about whether the anticipated environmental protections will prevail in the face of growing infrastructure demands. As COP30 approaches, concerns about the environmental cost of hosting thousands of delegates intensify, inviting scrutiny about the true intentions behind the summit.
