Wednesday 7 September 2011

Major success in protecting Amazon rainforest

Brazil’s second largest beef exporter, Bertin, has agreed to review its entire supply chain to ensure that none of its sources are involved with deforestation, slave labour or land grabbing. The move follows intensive campaigning by Greenpeace through its ‘Slaughtering the Amazon’ report. Other successes include Marfig, one of the largest beef producers and further pledges from Clarks, Nike, Timberland, Geox and Adidas.

"Bertin's decision should pave the way for the modernisation of the Brazilian cattle industry", said Sarah Shoraka, Greenpeace Forests campaigner. "Given the sheer size of both Bertin and Marfrig's operations, this commitment will have real impact on driving down Amazon deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions. Greenpeace will closely monitor the moratorium's implementation to ensure its success.”

Whilst there is no room for complacency it’s heartening to hear of Greenpeace’s success and it is to be hoped that other major brands follow suit. The task won’t be easy as deforestation continues apace with the criminal network behind the killings of rainforest campaigners still at large. Clearly, greater transparency in tracking supply sources coupled with exposure of those brands still involved in deforestation are major factors in protecting the Amazon and its inhabitants.

http://www.green-providers.co.uk/rainforest_success_79.html

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