New research in Nature shows that deforestation rates in areas protected by Indigenous communities are up to 83% lower than in unprotected areas. This study, combining satellite imagery and census data in Brazil reminds us of the vital environmental stewardship role Indigenous peoples play in preventing deforestation. While these communities have proven to be effective guardians of the forest, the research addresses the socioeconomic challenges they face. With incomes in Indigenous territories up to 36% (!) lower than in other areas and a significant portion living below the poverty line, improving their economic well-being is not only a matter of social justice but also an environmental necessity.
The research indicates that higher socioeconomic development can lead to reduced deforestation, making support for Indigenous communities a win-win for people and the planet. Indigenous communities need to regain access to their ancestral lands while also gaining access to development opportunities.
In light of global commitments to protect 30% of the planet's surface by 2030, it is imperative to support Indigenous rights to land and development opportunities if we want to reach that goal. Governments and organisations must work together to eliminate barriers that hinder access to social welfare programs and ensure Indigenous communities can sustainably manage and benefit from their ancestral lands. As we fight for our climate and our environment, let us support Indigenous communities, and remind the world of their indispensable role in preserving the Amazon rainforest and other key ecosystems. Their knowledge, resilience, and commitment are invaluable assets in our collective effort to protect the planet.
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22 w
the indigenous communities are doing a great job in ensuring the forest safety, we should all emulate that
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24 w
Protecting forests is a significant step towards ensuring that the environment is protected as it plays a crucial role in the reduction of co2 .
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25 w
Dear Sarah Chabane Your climate love has received over 50 agrees! We have reached out to APIB by email and requested a response. I will keep you updated on any progress! To reach more people and increase the chance of a response, click the Share button above to share the review on your social accounts. For every new member that joins We Don't Have Time from your network, we will plant a tree and attribute it to you! /Matin, We Don't Have Time
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25 w
Protecting the trees is a very crucial steps towards dealing with the issue of climate change as trees play a vital role in ensuring that there is balance in the atmosphere.
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25 w
This emphasizes how crucial it is for environmental policies to acknowledge and promote indigenous rights and governance. We may improve resilience against climate change and preserve biodiversity by incorporating these activities into larger climate plans, which will ultimately improve local ecosystems as well as the state of the environment globally.
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25 w
Great job. Let's learn from this on scale globally! We should provide funding to those protecting nature!
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24 w
@Rentzhog Funding for nature is necessary.