Atlantic Forest: 100M native species seedlings to be planted by 2026
The governors of the seven Brazilian states in the South and Southeast regions, which comprise the South and Southeast Integration Consortium (Cosud), have signed the Atlantic Forest Treaty, committing to a series of environmental goals. These objectives include planting 100 million seedlings of native species in the Atlantic Forest biome by 2026, representing the largest native tree planting program on the planet, according to the consortium.
The governor of Paraná, Ratinho Júnior, who currently chairs Cosud, said that this is the first act of the consortium, which aims to be a reference for the world. "It corresponds to more than 90,000 hectares that will be restored in our Atlantic Forest, with its native trees, making this project a great green corridor, a great project that is equivalent to 120,000 soccer fields, an example for the world. Alongside this, in terms of sustainability, there are also plans to introduce a blue corridor, where we will create preservation areas on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, providing protection for marine life."
The reforestation efforts will consider the unique conditions of each state while also involving the creation of conservation areas, expanded spring recovery programs, and environmental compliance. The treaty also encompasses a comprehensive strategy to address extreme environmental events like heavy rainfall and drought, alongside intensified environmental inspections and measures to combat illegal deforestation.
The South and Southeast Integration Consortium was established in March 2019. It recently became a legally recognized entity following approval by the participating states' legislative assemblies, with Rio de Janeiro yet to cast its vote. This meeting in São Paulo marked the consortium's ninth gathering and the first one involving concrete proposals.
The Southeast region comprises the states of São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, Espírito Santo, and Minas Gerais, while the Southern region encompasses Paraná, Santa Catarina, and Rio Grande do Sul.
