Deforestation: British retailers threaten to boycott Brazil

According to the Brazilian Space Research Institute, which conducts satellite observations, deforestation in the Amazon reached records in the first four months of 2020. REUTERS / Paulo Whitaker / File Pho

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Large British distribution chains threatened, on Wednesday, May 21, to boycott goods produced in Brazil if a law was passed which they believe could encourage deforestation in the Amazon.

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Among the 41 signatories of the open letter addressed to the parliamentarians of Brasilia are the most famous signs of the United Kingdom, like Tesco, J Sainsbury, Marks & Spencer, but also Asda, Waitrose, and food companies like Burger King UK, as well as the Swedish public pension fund AP7. These groups claim to be "  deeply concerned  " about a law backed by President Jair Bolsonaro that they say risks furthering deforestation in the Amazon .

The text in question? A law to be passed by Congress that would legalize informal settlements on federally owned land, even assigning land titles to those who occupy them in defiance of the law, according to the Climate Research Center. Policy Initiative. What leave the field free to mining companies or large farms while President Jair Bolsonaro defends the economic exploitation of the lungs of the planet.

► To read also: Amazonia: Oskar Metsavaht, the guardian of the Amazon rainforest

"  If the measure were to be adopted, it would further encourage land grabbing and large-scale deforestation, which would endanger the survival of the Amazon,  " write the companies concerned, adding: "  We believe that this would put also questioning the ability of companies like ours to continue sourcing from Brazil in the future.  "

The first four months of 2020 saw deforestation reach record highs in the Amazon, according to the Brazilian Space Research Institute, which observes it by satellite, with 1,202 km ² lost, 55% more than a year ago.

(with AFP)

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  • Brazil
  • Businesses
  • Environment
  • Jair Bolsonaro
  • United Kingdom

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