As Brazil continues its march to become a world leader, the desire to modernize the country could end up having some unforeseen, or at least poorly thought out results.
Currently there are projects underway to build a dam on the Xingu River in Amazonas, and two dams on the upper Madeira River. The dams on the Madeira would be in the state of Rondonia and in Bolivia but the effect will be felt down on the Amazon because the Maderia is the principal tributary of the Amazon River.
I lived along the Madeira River for several years in the town of Nova Olinda do Norte. I traveled by boat from where it empties into the Amazon and I have been to the navigable river end in Porto Velho, Rondonio.
Those who live along its banks are accustomed to it during the flood season and when its banks drop during the dry time. The same is true of those who reside along the Xingu River.
Dams that will change the flow of the rivers could have negative effects both on the humans and wildlife that depend on the rivers for their survival.
Let us hope that the legislators in Manaus and Brazilia begin listening to the ecologists, naturalists and the citizens of the rivers before they follow through with these projects.
Modernization is fine, as long as we do not destroy an important part of us in the process.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Americans heading to Brazil for work
Who would have thought that the American labor force would be part of an invasion heading south?
The truth is Brazil is reaching out for skilled laborers, technicians, scientists and any others who can assist them in getting ready for the upcoming World Cup and Olympic Games. Though in the near future there is a lot of work to be done and with venues scattered across the country the Brazilian government wants to move swiftly and steadily with its preparations, which means bringing in outside help.
It will be interesting how many of the foreign work force decide to stay in Brazil after their immediate task is completed, rather than return to the USA.
Perhaps this is the beginning of a new migration trend.
It will be interesting to watch.
The truth is Brazil is reaching out for skilled laborers, technicians, scientists and any others who can assist them in getting ready for the upcoming World Cup and Olympic Games. Though in the near future there is a lot of work to be done and with venues scattered across the country the Brazilian government wants to move swiftly and steadily with its preparations, which means bringing in outside help.
It will be interesting how many of the foreign work force decide to stay in Brazil after their immediate task is completed, rather than return to the USA.
Perhaps this is the beginning of a new migration trend.
It will be interesting to watch.
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