As the first country in the world, Ecuador has decided in a referendum to halt oil drilling prematurely on environmental grounds. For environmentalists, the decision to halt drilling in the Yasuní National Park is a "historic victory." However, the country can hardly afford to abandon oil production completely.
By Lisa Kuner
The Amazon Summit in Belém accomplished less than hoped: The eight countries bordering the rainforest failed to agree to halt deforestation by 2030 completely. Colombia and Brazil quarreled over oil. But the final declaration lays the foundation for far-reaching cooperation on forest conservation – and includes a message to the EU.
By Daniela Chiaretti
Brazil's next president has already greatly reduced deforestation rates in the Amazon rainforest once, according to climate scientist Carlos Nobre. Lula could achieve this again. But he will need international support: deforestation-free supply chains, billions in funding, and strict rules to ensure that the money actually benefits the forest.
By Alexandra Endres
