Brazil is one of the countries in the world with the most biodiversity and is home to one of the largest rainforests: the Amazon. The majority of the Amazon rainforest is located in Brazil.

The Amazon rainforest, often referred to as the "lungs of the Earth," is one of the most vital ecosystems on the planet. Covering approximately 5.5 million square kilometers across nine countries in South America, it is home to an astonishing variety of plant and animal species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. However, the past few decades have witnessed an alarming increase in deforestation, driven primarily by logging, agricultural expansion, and land-grabbing.

Deforestation in the Amazon is not a new phenomenon. However, the intensity and pace at which it has accelerated in recent years are unprecedented. While logging, mining, and infrastructure development have been ongoing issues, the biggest driver of deforestation today is agricultural expansion, particularly for cattle ranching and soy production.

In 2019, deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon reached alarming levels, with over 10,000 square kilometers of forest lost. According to official data, 2020 saw a 9.5% increase in deforestation compared to the previous year, with 13,000 square kilometers disappearing.

Over the past few years, political shifts in Brazil have played a crucial role in worsening the deforestation crisis. In recent years, the Brazilian government has significantly reduced the enforcement of laws aimed at protecting the Amazon. Policies have been promoted that prioritize economic growth through agriculture and mining rather than environmental conservation.

These policies have not only contributed to the destruction of the Amazon but also to the weakening of global efforts to combat climate change. The Amazon plays a critical role in regulating the Earth's climate by absorbing carbon dioxide. With each tree felled, carbon is released into the atmosphere, further exacerbating the global warming crisis.

Climate Change and Carbon Emissions

The Amazon acts as a carbon sink, absorbing large amounts of carbon dioxide and mitigating the effects of climate change. As deforestation accelerates, the Amazon is not only releasing carbon but is also becoming less effective at absorbing future emissions. This creates a feedback loop, where increased deforestation contributes to higher global temperatures, which in turn exacerbates the environmental conditions that lead to further deforestation.

Brazilian Commitment

On the other hand, Brazil has committed at COP29 to help the environment by reducing carbon dioxide emissions, promising to reduce 67% of their emissions by 2035 compared to their 2005 levels. Brazil will also be the host of COP30.

As part of Greeneum's commitment to renewable energy and achieving Net Zero carbon emissions, we have been working on two projects with communities in Brazil: the Vera Project and União Dos Ventos. These are major initiatives aimed at making a positive environmental impact while continuing the search for a better world 

União dos Ventos: Certified Carbon Credits and Sustainable Energy Development

The União dos Ventos Wind Farm is an innovative project developed with the help and collaboration of the Greeneum Network. Located in Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, it was designed to generate renewable wind energy, significantly contributing to greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions in Brazil. Certified under the United Nations Clean Development Mechanism (CDM), this project produces high-quality carbon credits aligned with international standards and verifications, offering a robust opportunity for companies seeking to offset their emissions and strengthen their ESG strategy.

The complex consists of General Electric wind turbines that efficiently capture wind and are monitored to ensure high availability and reliability. The project’s annual renewable energy production replaces energy from fossil fuel sources.

The credits generated by União dos Ventos follow strict standards of transparency and traceability. They can be purchased directly through the UNFCCC system, ensuring security and authenticity for buyers.

Brazilian Amazon APD Grouped Project

The Brazilian Amazon APD Grouped Project is an initiative aimed at forest conservation in areas of private property located in the nine Brazilian states of the Amazon.

This project has had a significant impact on local communities, helping 440 families and improving their quality of life. Some of these families live in conditions of total isolation. The project provides them with basic services, improving livelihoods and generating new sources of income.

Why Invest in União dos Ventos and APD Grouped Project Carbon Credits?

Purchasing carbon credits from União dos Ventos is a strategic choice for companies looking to strengthen their commitment to sustainability. In addition to directly contributing to climate change mitigation, purchasing credits from this project helps support renewable energy development and sustainable economic growth in Brazil.