The Amazon rainforest has already reached a crucial tipping point
New ScientistNov 27, 2022
The Facts
On Mon., the world's three largest rainforest-holding nations — Brazil, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Indonesia — formally launched an alliance aimed at preserving these ecosystems. The three countries represent 52% of the world's total tropical rainforests.
Ahead of the G20 summit that begins on Tues., representatives from the three countries signed a statement announcing the alliance. The framework asserts that rainforests serve an integral role in decreasing carbon emissions, and those nations should be compensated for efforts to reduce deforestation.
The Spin
Narrative A
We have already crossed a rubicon, as more than 75% of untouched forest in the Amazon has become vulnerable since the early 2000s. Climate change and the policies of Bolsonaro have pushed the rainforests to the tipping point. It's difficult to say which will come first, the ecological failure of the rainforest or the literal bulldozers tearing it down.
Narrative B
Amazon villages have seen a boom in their economies from deforestation, but then quickly saw bust with serious social consequences. It's true that deforestation leads to better roads, schools, and healthcare in the short run. However, there is a net social loss for the globe, and a regulation mechanism like an "OPEC for rainforests" can help better manage the environment and social justice.