Abelardo de la Espriella’s victory in Colombia’s presidential elections marks a possible change in environmental policy in the region. The businessman, backed by Donald Trump, defeated Iván Cepeda by just 251,000 votes, according to official results.
What will happen to the Amazon?
The Amazon rainforest, which absorbs carbon dioxide and slows climate change, faces a new scenario. Around 40% of Colombian territory is in the Amazon basin. During the government of Gustavo Petro, the country positioned itself as a defender of the jungle. De la Espriella promises to reactivate the oil sector, support fracking and further exploit natural resources.
Elizabeth Dickinson of the International Crisis Group noted that many governments now believe that economic development and conservation can move forward together. However, environmentalists warn that expanding fossil fuel production could increase pressure on sensitive ecosystems.
Peru and Brazil also join this trend. Keiko Fujimori, close to winning in Peru, supports mining. In Brazil, the election between Flávio Bolsonaro and Lula will define the direction of deforestation. Cristiane Mazzetti of Greenpeace Brazil said: “The elected administration sets budget priorities and regulates exploitation. The result is measurable, as shown by the rate of deforestation.”
Illegal gold mining is one of the biggest drivers of destruction in the Amazon. Dickinson added: “It’s very hard to disagree with going after illegal mining, one of the most damaging industries.” But he warned that governments often focus on seizing equipment, without dismantling criminal networks.
Julio Cusurichi, indigenous leader in Peru, stated: “Biodiversity and our territories can help climate change. In our territories we do governance for the planet.” Indigenous organizations denounce that governments do not adequately consult them before approving extractive projects.
Analysts such as Sergio Guzmán indicate that environmental concerns will compete with economic ones. “Many emissions concerns will take a backseat to energy self-sufficiency,” he said. He also mentioned that aerial fumigation of coca crops could resume, affecting Amazonian communities.
In Leticia, the Ticuna indigenous Arnaldo Rufino expressed his fear: “That means cutting down the trees that allow humanity to breathe.” The future of the Amazon will depend on the decisions made by the new governments in the region.
