Title: The Cerrado, a little-known but essential ecosystem in the fight against climate change
Introduction :
Less known than the famous Amazon rainforest, the Cerrado, an immense savannah located in the heart of Brazilian territory, also plays a central role in the absorption of CO2 and the fight against climate change. Despite its rich biodiversity and crucial role in maintaining ecosystems, the Cerrado faces many challenges, such as deforestation and the expansion of intensive agriculture. In this article, we will explore the importance of the Cerrado and the actions needed to protect it.
The wealth of the Cerrado:
Located in the southeast of the Amazon and extending over two million square kilometers, the Cerrado is the most biodiverse savannah in the world. There are more than 11,000 species of plants and hundreds of animal species, including jaguars, maned wolves and anteaters. The Cerrado is also nicknamed the “birthplace of waters” because of its springs which feed eight major river basins in South America. These sources are essential for the regulation of the water cycle and the preservation of aquatic ecosystems.
Interdependence with the Amazon:
The Amazon and the Cerrado are closely linked, as these two ecosystems depend on each other for their survival. The Amazon rainforest generates the precipitation needed for the Cerrado, allowing its rivers and aquifers to maintain sufficient water levels. In turn, the Cerrado’s waterways are vital to the water supply of the southern half of the Amazon. This interdependence highlights the importance of protecting these two ecosystems to ensure ecological balance on a large scale.
Threats to the Cerrado:
Unfortunately, the Cerrado faces many threats. The conversion of large areas of savannah to agricultural land, mainly for intensive agriculture and livestock farming, is one of the main causes of deforestation. According to the World Wildlife Fund (WWF), this deforestation generates 230 million tonnes of CO2 each year, the equivalent of the emissions of 50 million cars. Additionally, intensive agriculture leads to an increase in the use of pesticides, which pollute the Cerrado’s waterways.
Actions needed to save the Cerrado:
To preserve the Cerrado, concrete measures must be taken. First, it is essential to put in place strict regulations to limit deforestation and the expansion of intensive agriculture. Certification of agricultural products from the Cerrado, such as the “Cerrado Sustentável” certification, can also encourage sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, investments in research and education are essential to raise public awareness of the importance of the Cerrado and promote more sustainable alternatives.
Conclusion :
The Cerrado, this little-known but essential ecosystem, plays a crucial role in the absorption of CO2 and the preservation of biodiversity. Yet it faces many challenges, such as deforestation and intensive agriculture. It is essential to act quickly to protect the Cerrado and preserve its central role in the fight against climate change. By valuing this unique ecosystem and encouraging sustainable practices, we can preserve the richness of the Cerrado for future generations.