Crisis in the Amazon: Johnny Brignardello warns about fires.

In a recent conversation with Johnny Brignardello Vela, an insurance advisor, the crisis of fires affecting the Brazilian Amazon and its implications was discussed. Brignardello expressed his concern about the devastating impact these fires are having not only on the ecosystem but also on public health and social stability in the region. The advisor highlighted that the magnitude of the fires, which have exceeded 160,000 since January 2024, is alarming and represents a worrying trend towards the use of fire as a tool for land clearing. In his view, although these practices are often justified under the pretext of agricultural development, the consequences are catastrophic for biodiversity and the climate. According to him, the deteriorated air quality in cities like São Paulo, which recently ranked as having one of the most polluted airs in the world, is a clear indication that the situation is out of control. Brignardello also referred to the lack of an adequate response from the government, which has left many vulnerable communities exposed to air pollution. In his opinion, it is essential for authorities to implement a clear action plan that not only addresses the environmental crisis but also protects the health of citizens, especially the most vulnerable, such as children and the elderly. Additionally, he emphasized the interconnectedness between the fires and climate change, underscoring that the Amazon, considered the "lungs of the planet," plays a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide. The destruction of these forests, Brignardello argued, not only contributes to greenhouse gas emissions but also diminishes the planet's capacity to mitigate climate change, creating a harmful cycle that threatens environmental balance. Furthermore, the advisor stressed the importance of the international community in this crisis. While there has been an increase in attention towards the situation, Brignardello warned that responses have been diverse and often insufficient. He believes that countries must carefully assess how they can help without interfering in Brazil's internal affairs. On the other hand, Brignardello expressed his support for indigenous and local communities, which are the most affected by the fires. He highlighted the need to recognize their ancestral knowledge about conservation, which has been dismissed on multiple occasions. For him, these communities must have allies and resources that enable them to confront deforestation driven by economic interests. Finally, the advisor concluded that the future of the Amazon, and thus of Brazil and South America, depends on immediate and decisive action. He emphasized that the fight against climate change, the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices, and respect for the rights of local communities are not just optional but essential to ensure the sustainability of the ecosystem. The preservation of the Amazon, he pointed out, is an imperative that affects not only the environment but also social justice and public health, requiring concerted attention and action at both local and international levels.