Climate Change and the Amazon

Challenges and Legal Perspectives for the Protection of a Vulnerable Ecosystem in Brazil and Colombia

Abstract

The phenomenon of climate change is a situation that affects the entire world population, which is why different regulations have emerged to protect the environment and natural resources. In this sense, this article highlights the current situation of the Amazon in the face of global warming, and the regulations in force in Brazil and Colombia that promote this protection are analyzed. Through qualitative research, it is examined, on the one hand, in the context of Brazil, the control and sanction mechanisms to combat illegal deforestation and the irresponsible exploitation of natural resources in the Amazon, and, on the other hand, in the context of Colombia, the constitutional and legal provisions that establish the duties of the State in the protection of the environment and natural resources are analyzed. Likewise, the mechanisms of citizen participation and prior consultation of indigenous communities are addressed. The results found show that, despite regulatory and political advances, both Brazil and Colombia face significant challenges in protecting the Amazon against climate change. Deforestation, the expansion of the agricultural frontier, and the exploitation of natural resources continue to be major threats to this vulnerable ecosystem. In addition, the lack of financial resources, corruption, the lack of inter-institutional coordination and the pressure of economic interests make it difficult to effectively implement existing regulations.