President Biden pledged new financial assistance to protect the Amazon rainforest during a visit to Brazil, marking a final effort to combat climate change before President-elect Donald J. Trump assumes office in January.
During an aerial tour of the Amazon, Mr. Biden signed a proclamation designating November 17 as International Conservation Day. He announced that the United States would allocate millions of dollars for initiatives aimed at restoring land, planting native trees, supporting biodiversity, and enhancing fertilizer efficiency programs. This visit marks the first time a sitting American president has traveled to the Amazon.
Mr. Biden emphasized the importance of the Amazon, stating, “It’s often said that the Amazon is the lungs of the world... our forest and national wonders are the heart and soul of the world.” He highlighted the rainforest's extensive history, noting its development over 15 million years.
While flying over the Amazon, Mr. Biden observed various environmental issues, including wildlife refuges and areas affected by fire damage. However, environmental activists are concerned that his initiatives may be short-lived due to anticipated changes in U.S. foreign policy under Mr. Trump, who has expressed opposition to international climate cooperation.
Mr. Trump has indicated plans to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris climate accord and has nominated a fossil fuels executive to lead the Department of Energy. Top White House officials mentioned that some funding for Amazon protection would proceed before Mr. Trump takes office, but not all of it.
In his remarks, Mr. Biden acknowledged the potential challenges posed by his successor, asserting that efforts to protect the climate would continue regardless of political changes. He stated, “It’s true that some may seek to deny or delay the clean energy revolution... But nobody — nobody — can reverse.”
Research indicates that the earth has already experienced significant warming, with the last decade being the hottest on record. Mr. Biden has called on wealthy nations to assist poorer countries in addressing climate change impacts.
In 2021, the U.S. joined over 140 countries in a commitment to end deforestation by 2030. Mr. Biden previously pledged $500 million over five years to combat deforestation in Brazil, although this plan has faced resistance in Congress, with only about 10 percent of the funding disbursed to date.
The Amazon rainforest is vital for regulating the planet's climate, acting as a “giant air-conditioner” that lowers temperatures and generates rainfall. Mr. Biden's visit included a stop at the Museum of the Amazon, where he was welcomed by Indigenous women performing traditional songs.
Deforestation in the Amazon, driven by cattle ranching and soy farming, has led to increased carbon emissions and diminished the rainforest's capacity to capture carbon. Research warns that unchecked deforestation could push the Amazon to a tipping point, transforming it from a rainforest into a grassland savanna.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has also stressed the need for financial support from wealthier countries to preserve the Amazon, expressing concerns about a potential U.S. withdrawal from climate initiatives. Following his visit to Manaus, Mr. Biden is set to attend a summit of Group of 20 leaders in Rio de Janeiro, where discussions on climate partnerships are expected to take place.