Haiti faces severe deforestation due to charcoal extraction and inappropriate agricultural practices, exacerbating its vulnerability to climate change and natural disasters. The NGO Manos Unidas is actively working to combat these issues through reforestation and promoting agroforestry practices. They emphasize the need for cooperation among local authorities, NGOs, and civil society to address environmental challenges, particularly along the Dominican-Haitian border. Efficient cooking solutions are also being promoted to reduce firewood consumption, aiming to break the cycle of poverty and environmental degradation.

Despite advances in gender equality in Latin America, significant disparities remain in governmental representation, unpaid labor, and violence against women. Countries like Chile and Costa Rica show higher female representation in ministerial positions, while others like Brazil lag behind. Women like Dona Virginia Paz are actively working to combat both physical and verbal gender violence, advocating for respect and equality.

Efforts to save Brazil's six biomes—Amazon and Atlantic Forests, Pantanal, Cerrado, Caatinga, and Pampas—are underway, driven by local communities, small NGOs, and large collaborative projects. These initiatives focus on reforestation, sustainable agriculture, and ecosystem preservation to combat deforestation and fires.

Brazil's carnival has traditionally featured hypersexualized portrayals of black women, but recent anti-racist and feminist efforts have led to changes in this depiction. Racial equity is increasingly discussed in official forums, with campaigns highlighting the multiple layers of violence and discrimination faced by black women. Data shows that black women in Latin America suffer from higher rates of femicide, violence, unemployment, and lower income. Institutional racism and gender inequality are cited as key reasons for these disparities. Various groups and institutions are working to promote black women to equal positions in society. Notable efforts include the Brazilian Ministry of Racial Equality's international partnerships and the Afro-Latin American, Afro-Caribbean and Diaspora Women's Network's ongoing fight against racism, sexism, and poverty.

Scientists in Latin America are investigating how Artificial Intelligence can be leveraged to create a more sustainable food system, addressing issues like deforestation linked to meat production and the resilience of crops to climate disasters. The article explores the potential of AI while questioning whether it is too early to remove human input entirely.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has released a report highlighting the severe and immediate impacts of climate change, particularly in Latin America and the Caribbean. Despite contributing less than 10 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, these regions are experiencing extreme weather patterns, including droughts, floods, and temperature fluctuations. The report underscores the urgent need for climate justice, resilience, and solutions to mitigate the worst consequences. The United Nations has called for global action to support the most vulnerable communities, emphasizing the importance of addressing their needs at the upcoming UN Climate Change Conference (COP26).

Human rights defenders face significant challenges, including threats, imprisonment, and bureaucratic obstacles when seeking asylum or temporary respite in Europe. Araminta, in collaboration with FairPlanet, supports these defenders by providing emergency support and advocating for policy changes to facilitate their travel and safety. The organization emphasizes the importance of collective action and engagement with European Parliament members to promote the needs of human rights defenders.

The Pantanal, the world's largest wetland, spans across Brazil, Bolivia, and Paraguay and is a Unesco Natural World Heritage site rich in biodiversity. Despite suffering from destructive fires in recent years, the biome remains largely preserved, with 83 percent of its original flora intact. Conservation efforts, such as the Sustainable Landscapes in Pantanal project by IPÊ and the Sustainable Pantaneira Farm seal by Embrapa, promote sustainable cattle ranching and biodiversity protection. Local communities, NGOs like Ecoa, and conservation analysts like Cyntia Cavalcante Santos and Rafael Chiaravalloti play crucial roles in preserving the Pantanal. The region faces challenges from climate change, hydroelectric projects, and loss of native vegetation, but initiatives like the restoration of the Baía Negra Preservation Area demonstrate the community's commitment to saving their homeland and its biodiversity.

Brazil and Paraguay are actively involved in international relations with China and Russia, affecting both domestic and global politics. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's recent visit to China aimed to strengthen economic ties and discuss the use of national currencies in bilateral trade, despite environmental concerns. Lula's attempt to mediate the Russia-Ukraine conflict has led to criticism from the US and EU. Paraguay's upcoming presidential election could impact Taiwan's diplomatic support, with candidates Santiago Peña and Efraín Alegre holding opposing views on whether to maintain ties with Taiwan or align with China.

The Observatory of Isolated and Recently Contacted Indigenous Peoples (Opi) has introduced Mopi, a geospatial tool designed to monitor and protect isolated indigenous peoples in the Brazilian Amazon. The tool, which uses public geospatial data and Opi surveys, was launched in partnership with COIAB and OPAN as a tribute to Opi's founder Bruno Pereira, who was murdered in 2022. Mopi assesses the living conditions and territories of indigenous groups across seven parameters and helps in planning public protection policies, especially in the face of climate change. There are 115 identified groups, with one unrecognized by the previous government.

The World Health Organisation recognizes breastfeeding as a crucial right for children's health, but research from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro reveals low adherence to WHO guidelines in Brazil. Despite high initial breastfeeding rates, continuation drops significantly by four to five months of age. The World Breastfeeding Week 2023 campaign by the Brazilian branch of the International Baby Food Action Network aims to support working mothers and improve breastfeeding rates, while Instituto Alente assists first-time mothers in learning about breastfeeding.

The Belo Monte hydroelectric plant on the Xingu River in the Brazilian Amazon has been operational since 2015, providing about 10% of Brazil's energy needs. However, it has caused environmental damage, including forced displacement of communities, decline in fishing resources, and reduced water flow affecting local ecosystems. Indigenous and riverine people have challenged the project, leading to a Supreme Court ruling that their constitutional right to be consulted was violated. A collaborative effort between communities and scientists has proposed the Piracema Hydrograph, a more ecologically sound approach to water flow management. The new Brazilian government has been urged to mitigate the plant's impacts.

Brazil, holding 12 percent of the world's freshwater, faces challenges such as deforestation and changing rainfall patterns affecting water distribution. Instituto Trata Brasil's study reveals that 40 percent of Brazil's treated water is lost, mostly due to leaks, which could otherwise serve 66 million people annually. Uruguay, Costa Rica, Colombia, and Ecuador also experience significant water waste, while Chile and Bolivia perform better. The Planet Water Museum in Curitiba, Brazil, supported by UNESCO and other organizations, offers educational experiences to promote water conservation, emphasizing the need for collective action among citizens, companies, and governments to address water sustainability in the face of climate change.

Argentina, amidst a Covid-19 resurgence and economic crisis, has introduced gender-based policies to address the disproportionate impact on women, who have seen a 20% drop in labor force participation. The country, which has legalized abortion and is led by President Alberto Fernández, has been recognized by the United Nations for its gender policies. High-ranking officials Elizabeth Gómez Alcorta, Vilma Ibarra, and Mercedes D’Alessandro have implemented measures to combat violence, food insecurity, and income loss, including support for gender-based violence survivors and aid for the unemployed and informal workers. These efforts are seen as steps towards gender equality and a gender-based post-pandemic recovery.

The Chiloé Islands and Chilean Patagonia, known for their unique ecosystems, are the focus of conservation efforts highlighted by a study from Universidad Austral de Chile. Challenges persist in the region, including political discord and the need for a just constitutional process that respects social and environmental rights. Juan Carlos Viveros of the Defendamos Chiloé movement met with Environment Minister Maisa Rojas to discuss regulations for the salmon industry and the creation of a whale sanctuary. Indigenous Mapuche communities are advocating for the Guafo Islands to become a Coastal Marine Space for Indigenous Peoples, which would be a new model for balancing human needs with coastal conservation. The WWF and the Forum for the Conservation of the Patagonian Sea support these initiatives, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and leadership in effective conservation.

From September 11th to 13th, the third March of the Indigenous Women took place in Brasilia, with participants advocating for biodiversity and ancestral roots. The event highlighted the progress of indigenous communities, including electoral successes and the appointment of Sonia Guajajara as Minister of Indigenous Peoples. The march emphasized the protection of Brazil's biomes and addressed issues like violence against women and equality. Approximately 8,000 women from 247 communities and international representatives attended. An open letter from the event called for land boundary establishment and rejected the time limit trick thesis. The Supreme Court's decision on the matter is pending.

Brazil's President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Vice President Geraldo Alckmin, inaugurated on January 1st, have appointed three women to lead the country's environmental and indigenous policies. Marina Silva, an environmentalist, is the new minister in charge of environmental governance, while Sonia Guajajara is the first Minister for Indigenous People's Affairs, symbolizing the administration's commitment to the environment. Joenia Wapichana will restructure the National Indigenous Peoples Foundation. The administration has already taken actions to protect forests and revoke decrees allowing illegal mining on indigenous lands, with Lula committing to zero deforestation and addressing greenhouse gas emissions.

The Cerrado, a vital biome covering a quarter of Brazil's landmass, faces threats from deforestation and land usage by agribusiness. Despite less than five percent being under conservation, community-based solutions are fostering hope. Initiatives like the CERES project and the Seed Collectors Association of Chapada dos Veadeiros are empowering local communities and promoting sustainable practices. These efforts are supported by organizations such as WWF-Brazil, WWF-Paraguai, ISPN, and funded by WWF-Holland and the European Union. The restoration of the Cerrado involves using native seeds and seedlings, with a focus on maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance. Challenges remain, such as lack of long-term support and invasive species, but the dedication of local communities and experts provides a resilient path forward for conservation.

Brazil recorded the highest number of rapes in 2022, with 74,930 victims, predominantly women and Black individuals. Children aged zero to 13 are the most affected, with most crimes occurring at home by known individuals. Femicides and attempted femicides have also increased, with Black and young women being the primary victims. The Brazilian Public Security Forum's report suggests that the rise in reported rapes may be due to more victims coming forward. Juliana Brandão emphasizes the role of schools in educating and supporting children to report violence. The report also criticizes the reduction of government resources to combat violence against women and links the increase in violence to the advance of far-right political extremism.

The Motagua River in Guatemala, which transports thousands of tonnes of waste annually, poses a threat to the Mesoamerican reef. Efforts to clean the river have been ongoing, with initiatives like 4Ocean and the Alliance for the Motagua River, which includes over 50 organizations, aiming to restore the river's cleanliness within a decade. The Alliance employs the EPIC methodology, focusing on education, policy, infrastructure, and cleanup. The article also highlights similar efforts in Panama by the Marea Verde Association, emphasizing the need for global, national, and local actions to address river and ocean pollution.

Amendments to energy transition bills currently moving through the Brazilian Congress have reintroduced 'jabutis'—provisions that could make the energy matrix more expensive or polluting, such as the requirement for mandatory gas-fired thermal power plant auctions. The article highlights concerns about these changes potentially delaying the exploration and burning of fossil fuels, which could impact Brazil's energy transition and environmental policy goals.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris on 10 December 1948, celebrates its 75th anniversary on 10 December 2023. This landmark document enshrines the inalienable rights entitled to every human being. A year-long initiative focusing on universality, progress, and engagement will culminate in a high-level event in December 2023, announcing global pledges and ideas for the future of human rights.

Brazil, a country with a significant black or brown population, faces underrepresentation of these groups in leadership roles. A civil society campaign, supported by over twenty organizations, is urging President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva to nominate a black woman to the Supreme Court to fill the vacancy left by Minister Rosa Weber. The campaign emphasizes the importance of diversity in the judiciary and the potential for structural changes in the justice system. Lula's previous nominations and the historical context of the Supreme Court's composition are discussed, highlighting the need for a progressive black female minister to advance equality and inclusion.

Indigenous communities in Peru face significant educational disparities, particularly in rural areas. NGOs like Amantaní are working to bridge this gap by providing educational opportunities and promoting financial independence. Despite these efforts, systemic issues such as lack of infrastructure, qualified teachers, and bilingual education persist. Experts emphasize the need for government intervention to ensure equitable and quality education that respects indigenous cultures and languages. Initiatives like Ethical Trade and Meet my World foster a sense of pride and identity among indigenous youth, while collaborative approaches that value indigenous knowledge are crucial for sustainable solutions.

Environmentalists in Chile celebrate the rejection of the Dominga mining project by a committee led by Environment Minister Maisa Rojas. The project, which aimed to explore copper and iron mining in Coquimbo, was rejected due to potential threats to delicate ecosystems, including endangered species. Organizations like Oceana Chile and Ladera Sur emphasize the need for ongoing protection of the area. Despite Chile's significant copper production, the decision highlights the importance of rethinking economic structures to safeguard the environment. NGOs like FIMA and Terram view the decision as a positive step but criticize the government's overall environmental efforts.

A recent case of forced labour in Brazil's wine industry has exposed severe human rights violations, with over 200 workers rescued from degrading conditions in Rio Grande do Sul. The article highlights the broader issue of modern slavery, citing statistics from the International Labour Organisation and calling for societal and governmental action to promote decent work conditions. Brazilian institutions, including the Catholic Church and NGOs, demand an end to practices that exploit vulnerable populations. The article underscores the need for global efforts to combat forced labour and protect human dignity.

Brazil's offshore wind energy potential is estimated at 700 GW, with projects rapidly increasing in number. The war in Ukraine has accelerated interest, focusing on green hydrogen production. Regulatory bodies like Ibama and EPE are working to gather necessary information and expertise, drawing inspiration from Europe's experience. Despite robust regulations, challenges remain, including port infrastructure, network connections, and socio-environmental impact assessments. Only two projects have submitted impact studies, both rejected for not meeting criteria. The need for comprehensive environmental data is critical, with tools like a new software from UFRJ aiding in impact assessment. Experts emphasize the importance of understanding marine ecosystems and the potential impacts on local communities and biodiversity.

El Salvador's state of emergency has led to mass arrests and human rights violations in prisons, with at least 153 deaths in custody since March 2022. The NGO Cristosal reports that the 'exception regime' lacks constitutional basis and has dismantled judicial guarantees. In Brazil, the United Nations Committee Against Torture highlights severe human rights abuses in overcrowded prisons, where the majority of inmates are black, reflecting systemic racism. Torturous practices and degrading treatment are reported, affecting both inmates and their families.

A Brazilian health insurance company, Prevent Senior, is accused of conducting unauthorized experiments on COVID-19 patients by prescribing ineffective treatments like chloroquine. The scandal, backed by the government, involved around 600 patients and has drawn comparisons to Nazi medical experiments, though the Holocaust Museum of Curitiba disapproves of this analogy. Journalist Chloé Pinheiro has been investigating the issue, revealing that doctors were forced to prescribe the treatment. President Jair Bolsonaro, criticized for his defense of these treatments and other human rights violations, continues to face backlash both domestically and internationally.

Venezuela is grappling with severe economic and humanitarian crises, exacerbated by its dependence on oil exports. Despite some economic recovery due to increased oil and natural gas production, the environmental costs are high, with numerous oil spills and deforestation. The article argues for a transition to renewable energy to ensure sustainable development and address climate change, highlighting that fossil fuels benefit only a small wealthy fraction of the population while the majority still require basic assistance.

Chile is striving to keep democracy alive, fifty years after the military coup that led to a long-lasting dictatorship under General Augusto Pinochet. A 2020 referendum highlighted the need for a new constitution, but a 2022 draft was rejected. The current rewrite is influenced by right-wing ideologies. President Gabriel Boric and four former leaders signed a letter condemning the coup and committing to democracy. The government announced a new plan to find victims of the regime. Despite positive sentiments, a recent protest ended in violence. Experts suggest Chile lacks a clear direction and a culture of human rights.

International Literacy Day emphasizes the importance of education, with a focus on promoting literacy for sustainable and peaceful societies. WWF's 'Restore Nature' Olympics in Brazil integrates environmental education into school activities. Despite efforts by NGOs, education in Latin America, particularly Brazil, faces significant challenges due to inadequate infrastructure and resources. A report by Todos pela Educação highlights the lack of essential facilities in Brazilian public schools, disproportionately affecting marginalized children. The Brazilian government is taking steps to address these issues, including a new program by the Ministry of Education to improve primary education and literacy skills.

Ecuadorians voted to protect the Amazon's Yasuní National Park and Chocó Andino from oil drilling and mining, marking a significant victory for environmental conservation. Nearly 60% of voters supported keeping the ITT oil fields in the ground, while 68% favored prohibiting new mining projects in Chocó Andino. Organizations like YASunidos and the Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of the Ecuadorian Amazon celebrated the results as historic victories for biodiversity and indigenous populations.

Over 100,000 women gathered in Brasilia for the Daisies' March, advocating for public policies supporting small-scale agriculture, human rights, and environmental preservation. The march, named after union leader Margarida Maria Alves, highlighted issues like hunger, poverty, and gender-based violence. The event received support from the national government, with the Ministry of Agriculture and Family Farming announcing measures to promote food security and economic autonomy for rural women. The Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization also emphasized the importance of family farming for sustainable development.

Brazil's comprehensive free healthcare system, SUS, initially provided widespread access to medical care but faced setbacks due to investment freezes and misinformation. Recent efforts, including the National Conference on Health and the resumption of the Mais Médicos program, aim to address these issues. Significant advancements include a 27% increase in investment in the Psychosocial Care Network (RAPS) and the expansion of mental health facilities, with Minister of Health Nisia Trindade emphasizing a humanized approach to mental health care.

The Guatemalan presidential election has taken a dramatic turn with allegations of fraud leading to a vote recount. Initially, the leftist Movimiento Semilla's unexpected success was celebrated as a sign of political change. However, the Constitutional Court's decision to recount votes has raised concerns about the integrity of the election process. Human Rights Watch and the Organisation of American States have expressed worries about the impact of these allegations on democracy. The article highlights the potential consequences of undermining electoral results and the importance of respecting the will of the people.

Brazil has introduced a simplified procedure for analyzing refugee requests from LGBTQ+ individuals from countries with severe penalties for homosexuality. This initiative, announced by the Ministry of Justice and Public Security and approved by the National Committee for Refugees (Conare), aims to protect those facing gender-based persecution. The United Nations Agency for Refugees (UNHCR) praised the decision, highlighting Brazil's exemplary stance on human rights. This move comes amid global setbacks in LGBTQ+ rights, such as Uganda's recent law penalizing same-sex relations.

Brazil's environmental strategy under President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva faces criticism despite some advances. Activists are concerned about the government's prioritization of economic interests over sustainable policies, particularly regarding oil exploration in the Amazon and tax cuts for cars. Tensions between the Ministry of Mines and Energy and the Ministry of Environment are highlighted. The European Union's pressure on Brazil to meet sustainability commitments and the upcoming COP30 in 2025 may influence future environmental actions.

Ecuador faces political instability as President Guillermo Lasso disbands Congress and calls for early elections to avoid impeachment. Indigenous leaders Leonidas Iza Salazar and Yaku Pérez Guartambel emerge as key candidates, advocating for social and ecological fairness. The Confederation of Indigenous Nationalities of Ecuador supports Salazar, emphasizing collective representation. The article underscores the potential for a new political chapter in Ecuador, despite past failures in Latin American politics.

In 2023, Ecuador converted a billion-dollar debt into a 'blue bond' to fund conservation in the Galapagos Islands, saving the government over $1 billion in costs and generating $450 million for conservation over 20 years. The Galapagos Life Fund will manage these funds, despite some criticism about its US-based control. The Galapagos, home to over 3,500 species, expanded its marine reserve by 30,000 square kilometers in 2022, banning longline fishing. Threats to the ecosystem include overfishing, illegal fishing, pollution, and climate change. Community surveillance and international cooperation, particularly in monitoring and managing shared marine resources, are crucial for protecting the ocean and its migratory species.

Chile faces a critical juncture in its constitutional reform process, with the recent election of a right-wing party to lead the drafting of a new constitution. Despite previous efforts to address public discontent through progressive policies and a new constitution, the future of these advancements is now uncertain. The Republican Party's victory raises concerns about maintaining the current Constitution's principles, potentially ignoring human rights and environmental protections. Experts express doubts about the new draft's acceptance, highlighting the country's deep political divisions and lack of confidence in the process. The outcome could significantly impact Chile's social rights and quality of life.

Argentina and Brazil's rise as major food producers has contributed significantly to greenhouse gas emissions in Latin America. The FAO emphasizes the need for a green transition in agriculture. Vegan diets are suggested as a way to reduce carbon footprints, and the plant-based food industry is growing. Artificial intelligence is being explored for plant-based food processing, with potential to revolutionize food production from farms to factories. AI can assist in forecasting weather, identifying crop issues, speeding up production, and tracking food origins. However, experts caution against over-reliance on AI without critical assessment and emphasize the need for human professionals in quality control. Investments in connectivity and reductions in machine costs are necessary for the transition to a data-driven food industry.

Paraguay's national elections on April 30, 2023, resulted in Santiago Peña of the Colorado Party winning the presidency with 43% of the votes. Despite the victory, the high abstention rate and a fractured Congress indicate a lack of strong national support for the incumbent party. International relations are expected to remain stable, with Paraguay continuing its alliance with Taiwan. Public dissatisfaction is evident, with protests and criticism of the ruling party's handling of education and the COVID-19 pandemic. Peña faces the challenge of uniting a divided country without a majority of popular support.

Nearly 6,000 representatives from 180 indigenous ethnicities gathered in Brasília for the Free Land Camp march, demanding land demarcations to protect their territories. President Lula, alongside other leaders, signed decrees demarcating six territories, benefiting almost 4,000 people. The Brazilian government has taken significant steps to protect indigenous groups, including creating the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples and revoking harmful policies. Indigenous leaders declared a climate emergency, emphasizing the importance of indigenous knowledge in combating climate change.

STEM careers in Latin America remain predominantly male-dominated, with women significantly underrepresented despite achieving higher education levels. A UNESCO report highlights that only one-third of STEM careers are occupied by women in the region, with even lower participation in advanced technologies like AI. The UN and other global and local organizations are working to address this disparity by promoting digital skills and encouraging girls and women to pursue STEM careers. Connectivity issues in rural areas further exacerbate the problem, with significant portions of the population lacking internet access. Initiatives like Niñas STEM Pueden, Fundación Ingeniosas, Proyecto SAGA, Meninas Digitais, and Meninas na Ciência are examples of efforts to reverse this trend.

Psychedelic drugs are increasingly recognized for their potential to treat mental health issues, despite historical stigma and legal barriers. Research into substances like psilocybin, LSD, ketamine, and MDMA shows promise for conditions such as anxiety, depression, and PTSD. However, experts caution that these drugs are not miracle cures and should be used with medical supervision. In countries like Brazil and Argentina, progress is being made in research and potential therapeutic use, but challenges remain in terms of regulation, access, and cost. Activists and scientists argue for the expansion of psychedelics' use as a human rights issue, while also considering sustainability and the socio-environmental impact of large-scale substance extraction.

In Latin America, police violence remains a significant issue, with recent instances of violent repression documented in Colombia. Amnesty International and Colombian human rights organizations have proposed comprehensive police reforms, including demilitarization and enhanced surveillance mechanisms. The introduction of body cameras for police officers in Bogotá and other regions has shown promising results, significantly reducing the use of force and deaths from police interventions. Studies attribute these improvements to changes in police behavior due to supervisory mechanisms.

In the Brazilian Amazon, near Lábrea, indigenous woman Maria dos Anjos and her husband Seu Marcelino dos Anjos are part of the Apurinã people engaging in a successful Agroforestry System (SAF), which promotes biodiversity and reforestation. The initiative, supported by Operation Native Amazon (OPAN), has replaced environmentally damaging monoculture with diverse, pesticide-free agriculture, providing a rich diet and potential income for the community. The project, which began with four villages, now includes 21 communities and aims to integrate sustainability, education, and health. Dona Maria also shares her knowledge with other communities, emphasizing the importance of agroforestry for future generations and the preservation of nature.

In a historic meeting on February 10, US President Biden and Brazil's President Lula da Silva focused on environmental agendas, democracy, and human rights. Lula committed to reducing deforestation to zero by 2030, while both leaders agreed to strengthen forest protection and invest in sustainable economies. The US considered contributing to the Amazon Fund. Brazil's environmental framework saw significant restructuring under Minister Marina Silva, with efforts to combat deforestation and forest fires. Early data shows a reduction in forest fires and deforestation alerts. Experts highlight the potential for US-Brazil collaboration to protect the planet's forests.

The article discusses the challenges faced by mother-scientists in balancing parenting and scientific careers, highlighting the efforts of the group Parent in Science in Brazil to advocate for policy changes. It underscores the need for adaptations in evaluating scientific productivity to account for motherhood and calls for further studies to support new policies. The article also celebrates the achievements of a single mother and biological science student in Brazil, emphasizing the importance of recognizing and supporting women in science.

Severe malnutrition, starvation, and mercury exposure have severely impacted the Yanomami people. Brazil's President Lula has signed a decree to establish a national committee to address this public health emergency. The government plans to provide health, education, food, and other necessities, with immediate measures including field hospitals and food baskets. The initiative also aims to combat illegal mining and deforestation, which are root causes of the crisis. The previous administration's neglect may be investigated as potential genocide. The plan is urgent and welcomed, but challenges remain.

Human Rights Watch's latest report highlights significant progress in human rights across Latin America, focusing on women's bodily autonomy, reparations for past military dictatorship crimes, protection of trans women, LGBTQ+ rights, and migration policies. Key developments include the legalization of abortion in Colombia, advancements in same-sex marriage and adoption rights in Chile and Cuba, and refugee status granted to Venezuelan migrants in Brazil and Ecuador. Despite ongoing challenges, these strides offer hope and inspiration for continued human rights improvements in the region.

The article discusses the efforts of the Mamirauá Institute in providing clean water and sewage treatment to communities in the Amazon. It highlights the challenges faced by these communities, such as the difficulty of accessing potable water and the impact of seasonal river cycles. The article emphasizes the importance of involving local communities in the implementation and maintenance of these systems and the need for continuous investment and political will to ensure the sustainability of these projects. Despite the progress made, many communities still lack access to clean water and proper sewage treatment, underscoring the need for coordinated action from governments and institutions.

The Mountain Marmosets Conservation Program in Brazil is dedicated to saving the endangered Buffy headed and Buffy tufted-ear marmosets, which face threats from deforestation and invasive species. The program, founded in 2014, collaborates with various organizations and volunteers to protect native habitats, conduct captive-breeding programs, and raise public awareness. Key stakeholders include the Primatology Center of Rio de Janeiro, the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation, and the Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust. Efforts focus on genetic preservation, habitat protection, and environmental education to ensure the survival of these species.

Cows emit significant amounts of methane and nitrous oxide, contributing to environmental issues. DSM's new additive, Bovaer®, can reduce these emissions by 30-90%, depending on various factors. Approved first in Brazil and Chile, Bovaer® is praised for its effectiveness and safety. However, its adoption may face economic challenges. Experts emphasize that Bovaer® is part of a broader strategy for sustainable livestock production, which includes proper pasture management and diet adjustments. The article highlights the importance of systematic changes for genuine sustainability in agriculture.

Brazilian researchers at the Federal University of Parana are developing a COVID-19 vaccine using a bioplastic nanoparticle, which has shown promising results without the need for additional adjuvants. Despite the potential for a cost-effective vaccine adaptable to other diseases, significant investment is required for production. Efforts to crowdfund for clinical trials have only reached 2% of the 12 million euro goal. Brazil's history of successful vaccination programs and current willingness among the population to receive a COVID-19 vaccine highlight the importance of national vaccine development. However, challenges such as the lack of private partnerships, decreased science funding, and the need for coordinated efforts across research entities persist.

Brazil, the world's largest beef exporter, is exploring ways to neutralize carbon emissions from its cattle industry. Embrapa's Carbon Neutral Meat certification involves planting eucalyptus trees in grazing areas, which can sequester significant amounts of carbon and improve pasture quality. This approach could make farms more productive and sustainable, though challenges such as initial costs and farmer resistance remain. Experts emphasize the need for government policies to prevent deforestation and promote sustainable practices. The initiative shows promise in offsetting emissions and enhancing environmental benefits.

Brazil has developed its first carbon-neutral beef using fast-growing eucalyptus trees to offset methane emissions from cattle. The Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa) has implemented a system where eucalyptus trees are planted in pastures, improving the quality of the grass and reducing the time cattle spend emitting methane. This approach not only sequesters carbon but also enhances farm productivity. Despite the benefits, challenges such as resistance from farmers and upfront costs remain. The initiative underscores the need for government policies to address deforestation and promote sustainable agriculture.

Paloma Costa, a 28-year-old human rights defender, was nominated to the United Nations Secretary-General's Youth Advisory Group on Climate Change. She views her role as part of a collective effort to amplify youth voices in environmental policy. Despite the reluctance of world leaders to commit to reducing deforestation and carbon emissions, Costa remains optimistic about the future and the potential for collective good. She emphasizes the importance of education, access to information, and community engagement in addressing climate change. Costa also highlights the role of science in combating the climate crisis and the need for a sustainable economy that values life over profit.

During the UN Climate Change Conference COP 25 in Madrid, indigenous leaders, including Sonia Guajajara, Helena Gualinga, and Daiara Tukano, spoke out against the violence and environmental destruction affecting their communities. Guajajara highlighted the recent murders of indigenous leaders in Brazil and the role of President Jair Bolsonaro in inciting violence. Gualinga criticized the impact of oil companies in Ecuador, while Tukano discussed the threats to indigenous territories from mining and other exploitations. The speakers emphasized the importance of indigenous stewardship of the environment and called for global support in their resistance against the exploitation of the Amazon. Osprey Orielle Lake of WECAN International also spoke, stressing the need to protect the Amazon to mitigate climate change.

The article discusses the issue of police violence in Rio de Janeiro's favelas, particularly against black and poor people. It highlights the increase in such violence since Wilson Witzel became governor and his political alignment with President Jair Bolsonaro. The article cites statistics on police killings and compares them to São Paulo's, emphasizing the lethal impact of state agents. It also covers the perspectives of various activists and experts, including Raull Santiago, Maria Lucia Karam, and Luciana Boiteux, who criticize the 'war on drugs' as a tool for maintaining racism and inequality. They argue that this war targets vulnerable communities and serves as a pretext for violent state actions. The article also touches on the psychological impact on police officers and the movement to report these actions as international crimes to the United Nations. The experts suggest that legalizing all drugs could be a step towards reducing violence and establishing real public security.

The article discusses the widespread outrage and protests in Brazil and around the world in response to the Amazon rainforest fires, which have increased by 84% in 2019. The fires, which have even affected the city of São Paulo, are largely attributed to President Jair Bolsonaro's environmental policies that activists claim encourage deforestation. Indigenous communities, who are among the most affected, have been actively protesting and demanding action. Simone Eloy Terena, an indigenous leader and advisor for the Liberty and Socialism Party, emphasizes the importance of land for indigenous people and their role as protectors of nature. She also highlights the First Indigenous Woman’s March in Brasilia and the Indigenous Women’s Voice project supported by UN Women, which aims to empower indigenous women. The article also mentions international concern from leaders like Emmanuel Macron and Justin Trudeau, and the determination of indigenous people to resist and protect their rights and land.

Chile is poised to decide on whether to draft a new constitution in response to widespread protests sparked by a metro fare increase in October 2019. The protests highlighted deeper issues of social inequality, prompting President Sebastián Piñera to call for a plebiscite. Surveys by the Public Studies Center and Cadem show a significant shift in public priorities and a steep decline in approval for Piñera. Trust in various institutions, including the police and the judiciary, has also plummeted. The current constitution, dating back to Pinochet's dictatorship, lacks guarantees for basic social rights. While left-wing politicians advocate for a new constitution to enhance social and human rights, right-wing parties suggest immediate reforms to the existing one. The plebiscite will take place on April 26, with a majority of Chileans currently favoring a new constitution, according to the CEP survey.

The article discusses the conflict between proposed industrial development and environmental conservation in Parana, Brazil, focusing on the potential construction of a container port near Ilha do Mel. Environmentalists and local communities argue that the project would cause irreversible damage to the ecosystem and displace indigenous populations. Alternative plans for sustainable tourism are proposed but face governmental resistance. The article highlights broader issues of environmental policy and sustainable development in Brazil and Latin America.

The article highlights the significant increase in Amazon rainforest fires in 2019, attributing the crisis to President Jair Bolsonaro's environmental policies. It emphasizes the critical role of indigenous people in protecting the Amazon and details their protests against the government's stance on land demarcation. Indigenous leader Simone Eloy Terena discusses the empowerment of indigenous women through the First Indigenous Woman’s March and the Indigenous Women’s Voice project by UN Women. The article underscores the ongoing struggle for indigenous rights and environmental protection amidst political challenges.