Lula resumes plan to control deforestation in the Legal Amazon

President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva (PT) announced a series of measures aimed at preserving the environment. During the event celebrating World Environment Day, the president announced the resumption of the Plan for the Prevention and Control of Deforestation in the Legal Amazon and the Bolsa Verde program.

In addition, Lula signed several decrees with measures to protect the forest, such as the recreation of the interministerial committee on climate change, among others. “There should be no contradiction between economic growth and preservation of the environment. Brazilian agriculture, for example, has enormous space to continue boosting our economy without having to cut down one more tree,” said Lula.

“From now on, agricultural and livestock financing will support increased productivity and recovery of degraded land. But, we will be tough on restricting any type of credit to anyone who violates environmental laws,” he added.

The president also vetoed a provision of Provisional Measure 1150/22, known as the Atlantic Forest MP. The text eased deforestation in areas where electricity transmission lines, gas pipelines or public water supply systems will be implemented, without the need for a prior study of the environmental impact or compensation of any kind, among others, informed the Brazil Agency. Now, it is up to Congress to decide whether to uphold or override the presidential veto.

The Minister of the Environment, Marina Silva, spoke during the event. She saw her portfolio emptied during the processing and voting of the provisional measure (MP) for the restructuring of Lula’s government, approved last week.

“The Ministry of the Environment is perfectly aware of its responsibility to join the national effort in this direction, to do its part with firmness, scientific and technological knowledge, social sensitivity and patience, to welcome all interests that prove to be legitimate, that is , aimed at the public interest, for the common good”, highlighted Marina Silva.

The vice-president and minister of Development, Industry, Commerce and Services, Geraldo Alckmin; and the finance ministers, Fernando Haddad; of Indigenous Peoples, Sônia Guajajara, among others.