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Amazon Drought Cripples Pirarucu Fishery
The Amazon's pirarucu fishery, a successful sustainable economy, is severely impacted by a record-breaking drought, raising concerns about climate change and the need for adaptation and mitigation strategies.
English
United States
Climate ChangeLatin AmericaSustainabilityAmazonDroughtFishing
Coletivo PirarucuIbamaChico Mendes MemorialNational Institute For Amazonian Research
Adalberto Luis ValAdevaldo DiasJames Bessa
- What is the argument for climate justice in this context?
- Adevaldo Dias emphasizes climate justice, arguing that Indigenous and riverine people, with minimal environmental impact, are the most vulnerable to extreme climate events and should receive support. The solution requires both adaptation and mitigation strategies.
- How has the drought impacted the pirarucu fishery in the Amazon?
- Two years of record-breaking drought in the Amazon have severely impacted the pirarucu fishery, a successful sustainable economy for around 6,000 riverine dwellers. The reduced water levels have made transportation of the fish difficult, causing a sharp drop in production and increased costs.
- What environmental factors are challenging the pirarucu's resilience?
- The pirarucu, though historically resilient, is facing challenges from rising temperatures, increased CO2, and reduced oxygen levels due to drought, making it harder for them to survive and for fishers to catch them.
- What actions is the Brazilian government taking to address the situation?
- The federal government, through Ibama, is working with other bodies and local associations to mitigate the drought's impact. Plans include scientific studies and closer monitoring to aid riverine and Indigenous communities in sustaining their fishing.
- What are the demands of Coletivo Pirarucu regarding the drought's impact?
- Coletivo Pirarucu, representing 2,500 families, is requesting an extension of the fishing season and compensation for losses due to climate change. They argue that the fishermen, with minimal environmental impact, are disproportionately affected by climate events.