The Amazon is one of the most valuable natural assets of all mankind and the largest natural reserve on the planet. With seven million square kilometers, of which five and a half million are forests, it is one of the richest biomes in terms of biodiversity in the world, playing a fundamental role in the planet's environmental and climate balance and the conservation of water resources. Also full of contradictions, the region has 7 of the 10 most polluting cities in Brazil, with São Félix do Xingu (PA) being the most polluting and having the largest cattle herd in the world.

According to IBGE, the Amazon occupies approximately 49,29% of the Brazilian territory, covers the states of Acre, Amapá, Amazonas, Pará, Roraima, Rondônia, Mato Grosso, Maranhão and Tocantins, and has 772 municipalities. With a population of more than 29.6 million inhabitants, it represents approximately 13% of the Brazilian contingent.

The current population map of the region reveals some interesting features. One of them is the slight predominance of women, representing 50.3% of the total. This data reflects the demographic composition of the region and highlights the importance of women in Amazonian society.

Regarding age group, adults between 30 and 49 years old stand out, totaling 8,063,449 people. This age group represents the productive phase of life, in which many individuals are involved in economic activities such as agriculture, commerce, industry and services. These adults play a crucial role in the development of the region, contributing to its economy and social growth.

On the other hand, the elderly over 65 years old make up the group with the smallest number of individuals in the region, representing only 7.5% of the population. This data can be attributed to several factors, such as the relatively high birth rate and the lack of adequate structure for the care and well-being of the elderly in the region. It is important to point out, however, that the increase in life expectancy and the aging of the population are phenomena that are also becoming more evident in the Amazon, demanding attention and public policies aimed at the elderly.

It is essential to recognize the importance of each age group and gender in Amazonian society. Women play a crucial role not only as members of the workforce, but also as community leaders, caregivers and agents of change. Adults between the ages of 30 and 49 are essential for the economic and social development of the region, while the elderly bring with them vast experience and knowledge, in addition to deserving attention and respect for their specific needs.

Classification by race in the Amazon reveals an interesting picture of the region's ethnic composition. The brown population represents the majority, with 68.6% of the total. This data reflects the historical and cultural miscegenation that characterizes the region, resulting from the interaction between indigenous, European, African and other ethnic groups over the centuries.

The predominance of the brown population in the Amazon is a reflection of the ethnic and cultural diversity that permeates the region. This diversity is one of the richest and most striking aspects of the Amazon, which is home to a multitude of ethnic groups, each with its own traditions, languages and specific ways of life. The coexistence and interaction between these groups is an integral part of the Amazonian identity and contributes to the formation of a multicultural and plural society.

Regarding whites, they represent 20.7% of the population of the Amazon. This portion of the population is the result of European colonization in the region, which brought with it cultural, political and economic influences.

The black population represents 8.5% of the Amazonian population. The presence of black people in the region is a result of the history of slavery in Brazil, in which many Africans were brought to work in plantations, mines and large houses. This part of the population makes a significant contribution to the local culture and economy, enriching ethnic diversity and promoting the appreciation of Afro-Brazilian traditions.

The survey of data on the family structure and the distribution of social classes in the Amazon reveals important aspects about the socioeconomic reality of the region. The most common type of family is the couple with children and double income, reflecting a dynamic in which both spouses work to support the family. This family configuration may be the result of economic demands and job opportunities in the region, which encourage the participation of both members of the couple in the labor market.

With regard to households, more than 7 million of the 8,292,563 that exist are houses, evidencing the population's preference for this type of housing. Houses offer greater space and privacy for families, in addition to allowing greater autonomy and freedom in the management of domestic space. This predominance of houses in the Amazon may be related to the availability of land and the tradition of building and occupying the territory.

As for the distribution of social classes, the research indicates that the lower social class is predominant in the region, being four times larger than the upper class. This data reflects socioeconomic inequalities present in the Amazon, in line with the reality of Brazil as a whole. The concentration of resources and opportunities in certain sectors and the lack of access to basic services and opportunities for social mobility are factors that contribute to this disparity.

With regard to companies in the Amazon, the survey reveals that around 40% are from the service sector, demonstrating the importance of this economic segment in the region. This predominance of the services sector may be related to activities linked to tourism, commerce, transport and other services aimed at meeting the needs of the local population and visitors to the region.

On the other hand, agricultural companies represent less than 1% of the total, despite the Amazon being recognized as a region with great potential for agricultural and livestock activities. This disparity can be explained by several factors, such as the presence of large estates, pressure on indigenous lands and preservation areas, in addition to issues related to infrastructure and logistics.

Despite the low participation of agricultural companies in the total number of companies, it is important to emphasize that these activities play a significant role in the economy of the Amazon, especially with regard to agribusiness. The Amazon is recognized worldwide as a region with great agricultural and livestock potential, and its role in food production and international trade is relevant.

Under this premise, Brazil's commitment to different international rules and the search for a balance between environmental preservation and essential extractivism activities were reiterated by representatives of the country. Recognizing the importance of international standards, Brazil highlights the need to accommodate economic activities that are part of sustainable extractivism.

Faced with growing concern about deforestation in the Amazon, Brazil emphasizes the importance of considering communities that depend on forestry activities for their livelihoods. The country has Sustainable Use Conservation Units that allow economic activities to be carried out through proper management, benefiting local communities. These communities have been recognized and valued both inside and outside the country for their role in conserving the forest and promoting sustainable development.

In addition, Brazil announced a joint initiative by the International Fund for Agricultural Development (Ifad) and the state government of Maranhão to combat environmental degradation in the Amazon Rainforest. The Amazon Sustainable Management Project in Maranhão aims to reduce poverty and food insecurity in the region, promoting socioeconomic development through the sustainable use of natural resources.

The project covers an area of 58,755 km², which encompasses the regions of Amazônia, Gurupi and Pindaré, including the indigenous lands of Arariboia. This area corresponds to about 72% of the Amazon forest in the state of Maranhão. The initiative aims to train family farmers, indigenous peoples and other traditional communities in sustainable forest management. Through this responsible management, the aim is to increase the productivity of economic activities, promote biodiversity and protect the ecosystem services provided by the forest.

The region contemplated by the project faces constant threats of deforestation and degradation, especially due to illegal logging and the expansion of the agricultural frontier. Therefore, it is essential to implement sustainable forest management practices that allow for reconciling socioeconomic development with the conservation of natural resources and protection of the environment.

Art produced by indigenous women in the Amazon, for example, plays an important role in promoting ethical trade and valuing the culture and identity of these communities. These women have used their artistic ability to create unique and meaningful pieces that reflect their connection to nature, their worldview and their ancestral traditions.

Indigenous Amazonian art is diverse and encompasses a variety of techniques and materials, including pottery, basketry, weaving, body painting and sculpture. Each piece carries with it a rich cultural narrative, transmitting traditional knowledge, myths and symbols that represent the indigenous cosmology and its relationship with the forest and the beings that inhabit it.

By promoting the ethical trade of these works of art, indigenous women in the Amazon have the opportunity to strengthen their communities and improve their living conditions. Fair and ethical trade allows them to obtain a fair return for their work, valuing their expertise and preserving their traditions. Furthermore, by establishing direct relationships with interested buyers, they have the opportunity to tell their stories, share their cultures and fight stereotypes and prejudices.

The commercialization of indigenous art from the Amazon also contributes to environmental conservation and the enhancement of natural resources. Many of the techniques used in artistic production involve the use of sustainable materials, such as vegetable fibers, natural dyes and certified wood. By promoting the responsible use of these resources, indigenous women show a practical example of how it is possible to reconcile economic development with nature preservation.

Furthermore, the ethical trade of indigenous art encourages the appreciation of cultural diversity and respect for the rights of indigenous peoples. By purchasing a piece of indigenous art, consumers have the opportunity to directly support indigenous communities, contributing to their autonomy, self-esteem and preservation of their cultural identity.

This initiative represents an important step in promoting a model of sustainable development in the Amazon, involving local communities as active agents in the preservation of the forest. By valuing sustainable forest management, we seek to achieve a balance between environmental conservation, improving the quality of life of communities and the responsible use of natural resources.

Indigenous Peoples and the Amazon: A Story of Sustainability and Resilience

When mentioning the Amazon space, it is common for indigenous peoples to be the main subjects evoked and associated with this region. This association and the images related to the indigenous peoples of the Amazon have been widely disseminated on a global scale. This representation is not coincidental, as indigenous peoples play a crucial role in preserving the Amazon rainforest and maintaining the rich cultural diversity in this area.

The indigenous peoples of the Amazon are recognized as the ancestral guardians of this ecosystem, which is home to the largest tropical forest on the planet. Their cultures are deeply rooted in a harmonious relationship with nature and in understanding the importance of preserving the environmental balance. Over centuries, they have developed sustainable practices in land use, forest management and conservation of natural resources, transmitting this knowledge from generation to generation.

The images of the indigenous peoples of the Amazon, with their body painting, traditional artifacts and community ways of life, arouse fascination and admiration in people around the world. Its symbiotic relationship with nature, its ancestral wisdom and its resilience in the face of contemporary challenges have inspired environmental and cultural movements, generating a growing awareness of the importance of conserving the Amazon and respecting indigenous cultures.

The indigenous peoples of the Amazon are diverse in terms of languages, customs, beliefs and cultural practices. Each ethnic group has its own history, worldviews and specific challenges.

Over hundreds of years, women belonging to different peoples originating in the Amazon have reserved a special moment in their routines to meet, talk, share experiences and pass on their ancestral knowledge. While connecting with each other, their skilled hands create objects that carry with them part of the history and culture of their peoples. Some of these pieces are utilitarian, intended for everyday use, while others are intended to adorn and beautify the lives of those around them.

Today, the unique and ancestral art produced by these Amazon indigenous women is being recognized and valued throughout Brazil. This appreciation not only preserves the rich cultural tradition of these peoples, but also contributes to a fair economy that promotes the conservation of the standing forest. As well as the diversity present in the more than 300 ethnic groups originating in Brazil, indigenous art in the country encompasses a wide variety of objects and styles.

One can admire the rich graphics on Baniwa baskets, the hand-painted fabrics by Kayapó artisans, the “teçume” articles produced with braided straw in the region of the Amanã Sustainable Development Reserve, the Xipaya art pieces made with seeds and wood, ceramics from the Tukano people and ornaments such as earrings, bracelets and necklaces made with glass beads. Each creation reflects the identity and culture of its creators, carrying with it the history and essence of its peoples.

A notable example is the handicraft produced by the Mebengokrê women, which incorporates the remarkable body painting of this people and reveals their strong and persevering identity. These indigenous artworks not only express the creativity and skill of these women, but are also powerful symbols of cultural resilience and preservation of ancestral traditions.

Currently, the network that includes more than 3,330 indigenous producers benefits directly through ethical and transparent commercial relationships. This network moves approximately R1TP4Q16.1 million through partnerships with 74 support institutions and community organizations, in addition to 35 companies. These commercial transactions not only generate a positive economic impact for indigenous communities, but also contribute to the conservation of approximately 51.8 million hectares of forest, preserved by indigenous peoples and traditional populations.

The operation covers five main territories: Xingu, North of Pará, Rio Negro, Solimões and Tupi Guaporé. Ethical, fair and responsible trade promoted by these initiatives underscores the importance of valuing and supporting indigenous artisanal production, recognizing its cultural value and encouraging the preservation of traditions.

A study carried out by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) also revealed the economic importance of forest products from the Amazon, highlighting açaí as the main revenue generator. In 2016, around 215.4 thousand tons of açaí were extracted, which resulted in an impressive income of R$ 514.2 million. This amount represents approximately 76% of the total amount of R$ 672.2 million obtained from the sale of all products extracted in the Amazon region.

The research carried out by the IBGE analyzed the physical and monetary provision of the 12 products with the greatest economic expression, both those extracted and those cultivated, in the period from 2006 to 2016. In addition to açaí, coagulated latex, yerba mate, heart of palm , Brazil nut, pequi, pequi almond, babassu, carnauba wax, carnauba powder, jaborandi and piassava.

However, the study also revealed some significant declines in the production of certain forest products in the analyzed period. There was a reduction of 34% in the production of extracted heart of palm, 47% in babassu, 44% in piassava, 45% in wax carnauba and 51% in powdered carnauba. The largest cumulative decreases were observed in pequi almond production, with a decrease in 73%, and in extracted coagulated latex, with a reduction in 70%.

On the other hand, some products showed an increase in production. Extracted açaí saw an increase of 113%, while cultivated açaí saw an increase of 8%. The cultured coagulated latex had an increment of 8%, the cultivated yerba mate grew 45% and the extracted yerba mate increased by 51%. In addition, there was an increase in the production of cultivated heart of palm (60%), Brazil nut (21%) and jaborandi (2%).

This pioneering study carried out by the IBGE aims to assess the economic and environmental importance of resources from the Amazon rainforest when preserved. The data show the relevance of açaí as one of the main income-generating products in the region, highlighting its significant contribution to the local economy. However, they also highlight the need for sustainable and responsible management of natural resources, with a view to preserving the standing forest and ensuring the continuity of these valuable forest products in the future.

From the perspective of valuing art and the forest, Aldeia Krahô, located in the heart of the Brazilian Cerrado, is a cultural treasure that holds in its traditions and handicrafts the ancestral richness of this indigenous people. With their weaving skill, the Krahô produce a variety of objects, from baskets and bags to necklaces and musical instruments, using natural materials found in their environment.

This craft production goes beyond aesthetic and cultural value, also embracing sustainability and a harmonious relationship with nature. The Krahô understand that their existence is intrinsically linked to the landscape in which they live, recognizing the interdependence between human beings, trees, mountains, rivers and seas. This sacred cosmovision is reflected in artisanal practices, which value and preserve natural resources, avoiding waste and promoting harmony with the environment.

With approximately 120 craftswomen and 20 active artisans, the Krahô village keeps alive the ancestral weaving techniques. Each piece produced carries with it not only the craftsmen's skill and creativity, but also the history, values and knowledge transmitted from generation to generation. Each braid, each seed and each fiber used tells a part of the cultural identity of the Krahô, strengthening their self-esteem and the feeling of belonging to their community.

In addition to preserving and valuing their culture, the craft production of the Krahô plays an important role in promoting sustainable development and generating income for the community. By marketing their handicrafts, the Krahô establish commercial relationships based on ethics and the appreciation of indigenous work, contributing to the appreciation and recognition of their traditions.

Valuing indigenous art and crafts is, therefore, recognizing and respecting Brazil's cultural diversity, as well as promoting environmental preservation and sustainability. It is necessary that society as a whole values and supports the work of indigenous peoples, recognizing their contribution to the preservation of nature and to the maintenance of a more balanced and harmonious world.

Rights of Nature: A Path to Global Sustainability

In recent years, it has become increasingly evident that the traditional development model, based on the indiscriminate exploitation of natural resources, has led to an unprecedented global environmental crisis. Faced with this scenario, movements in defense of the rights of nature have emerged, seeking an innovative legal and ethical approach to the protection and preservation of ecosystems.

The core idea behind the rights of nature is to recognize that nature has its own inalienable rights, as do human beings. This approach breaks with the anthropocentric view that places human beings at the center of all decisions and considers nature only as a resource to be exploited. By conferring rights on nature, its intrinsic importance and inestimable value for the survival and well-being of all forms of life are recognized.

In Brazil and in other countries around the world, the movement for the rights of nature has gained strength. Traditional communities, indigenous peoples and non-governmental organizations are mobilizing to ensure that nature's voice is heard and respected. These movements seek the adoption of laws and policies that legally recognize the rights of nature, allowing ecosystems, rivers, forests and other forms of life to have legal representation and protection.

The approach to the rights of nature goes beyond simple environmental conservation. It implies a paradigm shift, a profound transformation in the way we relate to the environment. It means recognizing that we are an integral part of nature, not its owners or controllers. This requires adopting sustainable practices, respecting ecological limits, restoring degraded ecosystems and promoting a regenerative economy.

A notable example of progress in this direction is the inclusion of the rights of nature in the Constitution of some countries, such as Ecuador and Bolivia. These countries legally recognize nature as a subject of law, with the right to existence, the maintenance of its vital cycles and the regeneration of its ecosystems. This innovative approach has the potential to transform the way we relate to nature and ensure its long-term protection.

The recent recognition of the Laje River, in the Guajará Mirim State Park, as a living entity and subject of rights is a historic landmark in Brazil. This pioneering initiative reflects a global movement that seeks to reverse biodiversity loss, combat desertification, address climate change and respect the planetary boundaries that sustain life on Earth. More than 400 similar initiatives are underway in nearly 40 countries around the world, demonstrating the relevance and urgency of this approach.

The rights of nature recognize that humanity and nature are interdependent and share an intrinsic existence with the planet. This view breaks with the idea that nature is just a resource to be exploited and puts into practice a relationship of respect and balance with natural systems. By conferring rights on nature, we recognize its great importance and its essential role for the survival of all forms of life, including humanity itself.

These Earth-centric legal initiatives provide mechanisms to ensure the integrity and health of ecosystems. By recognizing that natural systems have inalienable rights, such as the right to existence, regeneration and balance, we can establish legal safeguards that protect nature from harmful and irresponsible activities. This implies adopting sustainable practices, promoting the restoration of degraded ecosystems and reassessing our consumption and production patterns.

In addition, the rights of nature also involve the participation of local communities and indigenous peoples, recognizing their ancestral practices in the management and conservation of natural resources. These peoples have a deep knowledge and connection with the environment, and their active participation is fundamental to guarantee the protection and preservation of ecosystems. As such, the nature rights movement offers a new perspective for dealing with the global environmental crisis.

Protecting indigenous lands plays a key role in reducing carbon emissions and combating climate change, according to a recent report by the World Resources Institute and Climate Focus. The study highlights the potential for mitigating emissions in indigenous lands and local communities (PICLs) in four countries: Brazil, Colombia, Mexico and Peru, which are responsible for 5.1% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

The report reveals that around 92% of IPLC forest lands in these countries act as net carbon sinks, absorbing an average of 30 tonnes of carbon per hectare each year. These lands sequester more than twice as much carbon per hectare as non-PICL land. This potential for carbon sequestration on indigenous lands and local communities is essential to meeting the climate targets set out in the 2030 Paris Agreement.

The researchers point out that the contribution of indigenous lands and local communities is crucial to avoid the need for offsets in other important economic sectors in the countries studied. Without proper protection and management of these lands, it would be necessary to offset emissions in other sectors to meet emissions reduction targets.

In addition to playing an important role in mitigating climate change, indigenous lands also play a key role in conserving biodiversity and maintaining ecosystem services. Indigenous peoples have traditional knowledge and sustainable management practices that contribute to the preservation of natural resources and the protection of ecosystems.

Guardians of Nature: Indigenous and Traditional Peoples as Defenders of Forests

 A study carried out by the Instituto Socioambiental (ISA) proved what many already suspected: Indigenous and Traditional Peoples are the true guardians of the forests in Brazil. According to the analysis, these communities are responsible for protecting one third of the country's forest areas. Over 36 years, the indigenous territories already demarcated or awaiting demarcation were the ones that most managed to preserve their original characteristics, highlighting the valuable service that these communities provide to Brazil and the world.

The results of the study are unquestionable and highlight the fundamental importance of Indigenous and Traditional Peoples in environmental conservation. While deforestation advances in other regions, indigenous territories stand out as true havens of biodiversity and protected areas. Satellite images are clear: it is the indigenous people who best manage to preserve the Amazon rainforest, one of the most important and threatened ecosystems on the planet.

Over the last 35 years, Indigenous Lands have proven to be particularly effective in protecting forests, preserving around 20% of the total national forests. In addition, Indigenous Lands and Extractive Reserves stood out in relation to other forms of protection, such as full protection Conservation Units or Environmental Protection Areas (APAs). These traditionally occupied territories play a crucial role in preventing deforestation and recovering degraded areas.

This deep connection between indigenous peoples and forests is not just a matter of environmental preservation, but is also intrinsically linked to the survival of all. The preservation of the Amazonian forests is fundamental to guarantee the supply of water reservoirs, the production of energy and the supply of drinking water for consumers, industries and agribusiness. The indigenous people, with their ancestral wisdom, understand the great importance of this ecosystem for the maintenance of essential natural cycles.

The presence of Indigenous Peoples in the forests goes beyond traditional management and high social technology applied to caring for the environment. These communities expand governance over their territories and promote significant socio-environmental contributions. Through their traditional knowledge, sustainable management techniques and respect for nature, they play a key role in conserving biodiversity and promoting ecosystem resilience.

Currently, approximately 40.5% of Brazilian forests are protected in the national system of protected areas, which includes Indigenous Lands, Quilombola Territories and Conservation Units. However, it is the protected areas that have the presence of Indigenous Peoples and traditional populations – such as Indigenous Lands, Quilombola Territories, Extractive Reserves and Sustainable Development Reserves – that guarantee the preservation of one third, approximately 30.5%, of the forests in the Brazil.

It is estimated that indigenous and tribal communities are involved in the management of 320 to 380 million hectares of forests in the region, which are responsible for storing approximately 34 billion tons of carbon. This amount is greater than that found in all forests in Indonesia or the Democratic Republic of Congo.

These communities have deep ancestral knowledge about forest ecosystems, acquired over generations, and have demonstrated a unique ability to protect and preserve these areas. Their active involvement in communal forest governance results in sustainable management practices, conservation of biodiversity and promotion of resilient solutions to address climate change.

For Brazil to achieve its climate targets and effectively contribute to reducing global climate change, it is necessary for the country to stop clearing both primary and secondary forests.

FAO highlights the importance of investing in initiatives that strengthen the role of these communities in forest governance, recognizing their territorial rights and valuing the environmental services they provide.

Revitalize traditional cultures and knowledge is essential to preserve cultural richness and promote sustainability. In addition, it is essential to strengthen territorial governance and support indigenous and traditional organizations, recognizing the crucial role of indigenous youth and indigenous women in this process.

To address climate and environmental challenges, it is necessary to promote partnerships between governments, climate financers, the private sector and civil society. Financial support and facilitation of community forest management are important measures to ensure the continuity of ecosystem services provided by indigenous and traditional communities.

Recognition of the role of indigenous peoples and traditional communities as guardians of forests and agents of change is critical to building a sustainable future. Valuing their cultures, knowledge and rights is a collective responsibility that contributes to the preservation of nature and the well-being of all humanity.

Indigenous peoples have shown that it is possible to reconcile environmental preservation with the sustainable use of natural resources.

Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen their struggles for the demarcation of territories, guarantee their active participation in environmental policies and promote respectful and equitable partnerships between these communities and other sectors of society.