Bora, Lula! Why the Future of the Amazon Matters to All of Us

The Amazon is one of the most important ecosystems on Earth. Its forests store carbon, support extraordinary biodiversity and influence rainfall and climate patterns far beyond South America. Their protection is not simply a national concern; it is part of a collective responsibility to safeguard the living systems on which we all depend.

There is reason for cautious optimism. According to Brazil’s latest official monitoring data, deforestation in the Amazon fell by 41.8% over the past year, reaching its lowest level since records began in 1988. The reduction has been attributed in large part to stronger environmental enforcement and investment in environmental agencies. Yet this progress remains vulnerable, and the policies that protect the forest will matter enormously in the years ahead.

At Arboreal Architecture, we believe ecological responsibility must inform every scale of decision-making. In architecture, that means considering whole-life carbon, the impact of materials, energy demand, biodiversity and the relationship between buildings and their surroundings. It also means recognising that individual projects exist within a much larger ecological system.

The same principle applies globally. Protecting forests, restoring habitats and supporting effective environmental policy are essential to addressing the climate and biodiversity crises. No single country, profession or community can meet these challenges alone.

We may not be eligible to vote in Brazil, but we can express our solidarity and encourage others to pay attention to an election whose consequences extend far beyond its borders.

As a team committed to a more ecological future, we stand with those defending the Amazon and support President Lula in the hope that Brazil will continue to protect its forests and strengthen its environmental commitments.

Bora, Lula! For the Amazon, for biodiversity and for the future of our planet.

Read more: The Guardian — Brazilian Amazon deforestation falls to lowest on record as pivotal vote looms