Brazil Lula Vetoes Environmental Devastation Bill
Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has signed into law a bill easing environmental licensing rules but vetoed key provisions that would have made it easier for companies to secure permits. The bill, dubbed the ‘devastation bill’ by detractors, faced significant opposition from environmental groups.
Lula’s Environmental Vetoes
President Lula vetoed or altered 63 articles of the bill, reinstating strict licensing rules for strategic projects. Environmental groups, including SOS Atlantic Forest, praised the move as a victory for environmental protection. Lula aims to introduce a ‘Special Environmental Licence’ to fast-track strategic projects and address legal gaps created by the vetoes.
Environment Minister Marina Silva expressed optimism, stating that the vetoes ensure a balance between the economy and ecology. The revised bill aligns with Brazil’s goals to eliminate deforestation by 2030 and reduce CO2 emissions by up to 67%.
Lula’s environmental decisions come ahead of the UN climate summit, where Brazil’s commitment to environmental protection will be closely watched.
Source: Al Jazeera and news agencies