Japan Loans Peru $120 Million to Conserve Amazon Rainforest
Japan has agreed to supply Peru with a $120 million loan to help protect approximately 136 million acres of the Amazon Rainforest from deforestation.
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Among the 9 nations with areas of the Amazon Rainforest within their borders, Peru has the 2nd largest tract at approximately 13%. Brazil contains the bulk of the Amazon with nearly 60%. Deforestation continues to occur at an alarming rate throughout the world-important forest.
Peru currently only has a small force of 61 officers working to curb illegal logging in the Amazon. The Environment Minister plans to revitalize efforts with a 3,000 person strong “Environment Police Force.” The generous $120 million loan from Japan will certainly help to make this a reality.
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Photo Credit: laszlo-photo on Flickr under a Creative Commons license
Antonio Brack, the peruvian minister of environment is doing a good job. I think this a good strategy to ensure the conservation of protected areas (such as national parks), other areas that the government is giving in concesions, and to develop projects of conservation for indigenous protected lands.
The only thing is that (together with the monetary incentive), the miniter needs to update the laws and regulations to be sure that this investment is going to be well use.
I agree with Alicia, this investment is incredible but it has to be used well to make a long term difference.