Who is Looking After the Amazon Forests?
The Amazon rainforest, often referred to as the 'lungs of the planet,' spans across nine countries in South America. Given its vast expanse and critical importance in the global ecological balance, the responsibility of its conservation and management is a shared endeavor among these nations.
The Enormous Span of the Amazon Rainforest
Recognized as one of the most biodiverse regions in the world, the Amazon rainforest covers approximately 5.5 million square kilometers, with the majority, almost 60%, located within Brazil. Other countries hosting parts of the Amazon include Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, and Bolivia, each contributing to the overall ecosystem in their unique ways.
Managing the Amazon Rainforest
The forest is managed through national and international collaborations. With Brazil having the largest share of the Amazon rainforest, it plays a pivotal role in its conservation. The Brazilian government is led by a Minister of the Environment, currently Ricardo Salles, who is responsible for the environmental policies and management strategies aimed at protecting the rainforest.
Challenges in Protecting the Amazon
Despite these efforts, the Amazon faces numerous threats. Gangs, drug cartels, political activists, and ranchers are among the groups responsible for starting fires in protest, oftentimes fueled by political tensions and economic interests. For instance, the 2019 fires sparked significant international concern, but as seen in an interview with Brazil’s Minister of the Environment, Ricardo Salles, addressing these issues is complex.
The Interview with Brazil's Minister of the Environment:
MINISTER SALLES: Referring to the exaggeration of the fires, I understand the desire for global attention but it's crucial to provide an accurate picture. The fires in the Amazon are a natural part of the ecosystem, and while factors such as climate change and human activities do contribute to them, the narrative often oversimplifies the situation.
Watch the interview with Minister Salles here
The Irreversible Impact of Forest Destruction
The Amazon rainforest is not just a repository of biodiversity but also a vital carbon sink, crucial for stabilizing the global climate. If the Amazon were to be significantly degraded or destroyed, the consequences would be severe and long-lasting. Unlike grasslands, which can recover over time, the regeneration of an old-growth forest like the Amazon requires hundreds to thousands of years.
Furthermore, the soil of the Amazon basin is unique. It consists of very thin layers of topsoil, which retains nutrients from the decomposed matter on the forest floor. This nutrient-rich layer is essential for the health and resilience of the ecosystem. Once this layer is depleted, it can take centuries for the soil to recover, thereby making the forest unsustainable for regrowth.
Conclusion
Protecting the Amazon rainforest is a critical global task that demands ongoing efforts and cooperation. As the largest rainforest on earth, the Amazon plays a pivotal role in global climate regulation and biodiversity. It is incumbent upon both local authorities and the global community to prioritize sustainable practices and policies to ensure the survival of this invaluable natural resource.