Ambipar and the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples Unite for Sustainability
In a noteworthy development at the Davos Summit, Ambipar, a Brazilian leader in environmental solutions, and the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples (MPI) have established an unprecedented partnership aimed at addressing climate challenges and fostering sustainability in indigenous territories. This collaboration, symbolized by the signing of a Protocol of Intent, is anticipated to have a far-reaching impact on approximately 1 million square kilometers of land—equivalent to nearly 14% of Brazil's total area, combining the sizes of both France and England.
The initiative aligns with the goals of Sustainable Development Goal 18, which advocates for ethnic and racial equality. Tercio Borlenghi Jr., the president of Ambipar, emphasized the importance of collective action in tackling contemporary environmental crises. Eloy Terena, the Executive Secretary of MPI, affirmed the necessity of integrating the private sector into the broader social responsibility framework aimed at preserving indigenous lands.
Key Objectives and Initiatives
This partnership will encompass a range of initiatives designed to empower indigenous communities and enhance their resilience against climate change. Among the strategies outlined are:
- - Training Programs: Technical support will be provided for training indigenous youths in prevention and response strategies to disasters, wildfires, and other emergencies.
- - Reforestation Projects: The collaboration will focus on reforestation efforts aimed at restoring deforested areas, contributing to ecological balance and biodiversity.
- - Bioeconomy Development: Projects promoting sustainable use of natural resources will be developed, aligning economic growth with environmental stewardship.
- - Educational Campaigns: Conservation and environmental education initiatives will be launched to raise awareness about the importance of preserving indigenous territories.
- - Circular Economy Practices: Implementation of circular economy principles and waste management strategies will be prioritized to minimize environmental impacts.
Economic Empowerment of Indigenous Communities
The agreement equally emphasizes economic advancements, with an aim to create income-generating opportunities through skill-building and professional training. Community consultations based on ILO Convention 169 will drive the project's alignment with the cultural and social needs of indigenous populations.
Rafael Tello, Vice President of Sustainability at Ambipar, underscored the role of collaboration in transforming environmental challenges into opportunities for sustainable development. He asserted, "We believe in the power of collaboration to transform challenges into sustainable opportunities. This partnership reinforces our commitment to solutions that generate a positive impact for people and the planet, especially for indigenous communities, who play a fundamental role in environmental preservation."
Eloy Terena expressed optimism regarding the partnership, stating that it serves as a vital tool for fostering public policies that are culturally appropriate and focused on sustainability, ensuring that the benefits reach indigenous communities effectively.
About Ambipar
Ambipar is recognized as a global leader in the environmental sector, operating in 41 countries and employing over 20,000 individuals. The firm specializes in projects associated with decarbonization, circular economy, and energy transitions. The company's shares are listed on the B3 (AMBP3) in Brazil and the New York Stock Exchange (AMBI).
As the world grapples with pressing environmental issues, collaborations like this partnership between Ambipar and the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples demonstrate a commitment to engaging indigenous perspectives in climate action. By weaving together sustainability, economic opportunity, and cultural integrity, this initiative stands as a beacon of hope for future environmental stewardship.