In preparation for the COP30 climate meeting in the Brazilian city of Belém, a new four-lane highway is being constructed that will go through tens of thousands of acres of protected Amazon rainforest.
Its goal is to reduce traffic to the city, which will host the summit in November and accommodate over 50,000 people, including international leaders.
Some residents and environmentalists are incensed over the highway’s environmental impact, despite the state government’s promotion of its “sustainable” qualities.
Many claim that this deforestation runs counter to the fundamental goal of a climate summit, as the Amazon is essential for biodiversity and carbon absorption for the global community.
