We currently find ourselves at a critical moment for nature, where protecting and conserving forests and biodiversity may contribute to meeting around a third of our climate goals.
The Amazon rainforest is often referred to as the lungs of the Earth due to its vital role in absorbing carbon dioxide and producing oxygen. At the same time, the Amazon is also the home and the provider of livelihoods for over 24 million people in Brazil alone.
What does the reality of a small-scale farmer in the Tapajós region have in common with a large, international consortium of scientists? And how can we guarantee that we create global and local policies ensuring that nature and its citizens are thriving?
Swissnex in Brazil, ETH Zurich, and the University of Zurich promote a discussion that delves into the intersection of nature, conservation, and climate change. This event aims to shed light on the role that protecting and conserving forests, particularly the Amazon rainforest, plays in achieving our climate goals.
This panel discussion focuses on the role of nature and conservation in addressing climate change and ranges from local to global action. We will listen to local voices from Brazil and combine them with the most recent international scientific findings.
Let’s go to the Amazon and beyond while engaging in joint action towards reaching climate goals.
Program:
I. Opening Address: Understanding the Amazon
- Martina Hirayama, State Secretary for Education, Research and Innovation, Switzerland
- Marina Silva, Minister for the Environment and Climate Change, Brazil
II. Fishbowl conversation: The role of nature in addressing climate change.
Featuring:
- Luís Roberto Barroso, President of the Supreme Federal Court of Brazil
- Tom Elliot, CEO of Restor
- Michael Schaepman, Professor of Remote Sensing and President, University of Zurich
- Hosana Silva, researcher, climate activist and TV presenter
Moderated by: Gioia Deucher, CEO of InnHub La Punt
In this segment, the 40 participants will be pivotal in exchanging ideas and solutions for the sustainable future of the Amazon. Their proactive participation will enrich our collaborative efforts.
III. Networking Lunch
The voices of this group will be crucial as we strive to create a platform for dialogue and collaboration in preparation for the COP30 in Belém in 2025.
