Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization

August 9, 2023

After a hiatus of 14 years, South American nation leaders convened to prioritize the Amazon rainforest’s protection during the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization summit. This pivotal gathering is taking place in Belem, a Brazilian city that stands as a testament to the urgency of the situation.

Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization: Standing the Test of Time

Founded 45 years ago, the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization (ACTO) plays a vital role in fostering collaborations amongst nations. It serves as a global entity dedicated to fostering sustainable growth within the Amazon Basin. The nations involved in this organization are Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Guyana, Peru, Suriname, and Venezuela.

The foundation for this collaboration was laid with the signing of the Amazon Cooperation Treaty (ACT) on July 3, 1978, which saw revisions in 1998. To bolster the treaty’s execution, ACTO was inaugurated in 1995. Further solidifying its presence, its Permanent Secretariat was set up in Brasilia in 2002.

Challenges and Triumphs in Amazon

The Amazon spans a region double the area of India, with Brazil encompassing two-thirds of it. The remaining one-third is divided among seven nations and one territory: Colombia, Peru, Venezuela, Bolivia, Guyana, Suriname, Ecuador, and French Guiana.

Already, 17 percent of the Amazon forest has been deforested. However, its vast expanse still holds 10 percent of Earth’s biodiversity, emphasizing its unparalleled ecological importance.

Experts warn that if deforestation reaches between 20% to 25%, the Amazon forest might uncontrollably release vast amounts of carbon dioxide, a grave environmental threat. But, on the brighter side, collective efforts have borne fruit. The Escazu Agreement of 2018, endorsed by Latin American nations, champions the public’s right to environmental data and ensures their participation in eco-conscious decision-making.

Record-Breaking Temperatures

Global climatic changes have been alarming, with the European Union’s climate observatory confirming that July was the hottest month ever recorded on Earth. Such records highlight the urgency of the actions needed to protect our planet.

Looking Back and Ahead

The momentum for regional cooperation of ACTO countries has been building over time. The last summit that saw these eight nations come together was 14 years ago, showcasing a revived and perhaps a more urgent commitment to the cause.

Furthermore, the global community’s eyes will be on Belem once again in 2025, as the city is set to host the United Nations climate talks. Such significant gatherings in the region highlight its central role in global climate discussions.

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