We have seen the complex natural functioning of the Amazonian ecosystem throughout this exhibition, which is uniquely beautiful. The integration between the biological behavior of the forest, the climate, and its multiple natural balanced agents ranges from soil depths to forest litter, canopy of the trees, and the tree trunk itself. These components are harmoniously balanced, unique among terrestrial ecosystems, and show how the atmosphere is uniquely beautiful. Similarly, it is stunning to observe how Amazonian biodiversity helps different species complement each other in defending the integrity of the ecosystem.
Humankind destroys this balance in searching for what we know as progress and does not perceive the true richness of the standing forest and the restraints acquired from unbridled profit in the short term and, generally, benefiting just a few. There is no interest in looking at the planet and the long-term sustainability of our society. This development model is destroying Brazilian ecosystems and, in a greedy way, the Amazon. But it is possible to reverse this picture of destruction, and science already has the tools to do so. We need to listen to the scientific community and the traditional knowledge of indigenous peoples. That is all we need to change the course of the destruction of this beautiful ecosystem.
We are on the path to building a new society that respects the fragile and perceives the beautiful balance between the forest and our dependence on the climate. A path that respects the rights of traditional peoples and does not see everything as dollar signs, but considers the soul of our indigenous people and our planet’s dependence on the living and wholesome Amazon.
Paulo Artaxo, Chief Consultant of Amazonian Times
