Colombia's Amazon rainforest—known for its breathtaking biodiversity and lush greenery—is facing a growing threat not just from chainsaws, but from armed groups tightening their grip on the region. 😔
According to a recent report by The International Crisis Group, these armed groups, particularly the dissident faction of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC), known as EMC, are playing a major role in ramping up deforestation. They hold the power to either halt or accelerate the destruction of forests at will. 🌳✂️
\"This group is the most directly responsible for deforestation in the last five years,\" says Rodrigo Botero, director of The Foundation for Conservation and Sustainable Development (FCDS). \"More than half a million hectares have been lost in their control zones.\" 😱
The EMC, now Colombia's third-largest armed group with around 3,500 members, comprises former FARC members who never agreed with the 2016 peace deal, those who left the agreement, and new recruits—some volunteers, others forced into the ranks. 🤝⚔️
While last year the EMC ordered locals to pause deforestation, this year they've ramped it up again. Talk about mixed signals! 🙄
Colombia's Amazon covers more than 40% of the country—an area roughly the size of Spain! 🇨🇴🌎 It's not just about trees; it's home to the world's largest variety of birds and countless other species. Sadly, 15% of this precious rainforest has already been lost, according to FCDS. 🐦💔
The increase in deforestation isn't just an environmental issue; it's a blow to our planet's lungs and a challenge to global efforts against climate change. 🌍💨
It's high time for collective action to protect this invaluable treasure. Let's not let armed groups dictate the fate of our forests! 🌿✊
Reference(s):
Armed groups hinder Colombia in curbing deforestation, report says
cgtn.com
