The city of Porto Velho in the Brazilian Amazon is currently shrouded in a thick cloud of smoke as forest fires rage on, leaving residents barely able to see sunlight for days. The Amazon region has been facing dire conditions, as a historic drought from last year has persisted and led to an alarming number of fires.
According to the National Institute for Space Research (INPE), there have been over 42,000 forest fires in the Amazon from January 1 to August 19 of this year, marking the worst number in nearly two decades. The ongoing destruction of the rainforest is a concerning issue not only for Brazil but for the entire world, as the Amazon plays a crucial role in regulating the Earth’s climate.
The impacts of the fires are not only seen in the immediate vicinity of the Amazon but also have far-reaching consequences for the global environment. The destruction of such a vital ecosystem could worsen climate change and lead to devastating effects on biodiversity and human livelihoods.
It is imperative that immediate action is taken to address the ongoing crisis in the Amazon. Measures must be put in place to protect and preserve the rainforest, not only for the benefit of Brazil but for the future of our planet as a whole. The world must come together to support conservation efforts and prevent further destruction of this invaluable natural resource.
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Video “Smoke shrouds Brazilian city as Amazon burns • FRANCE 24 English” was uploaded on 08/22/2024 to Youtube Channel FRANCE 24 English