Climate justice in Brazil is a crucial issue, particularly in ensuring equitable access to renewable energy, public transportation, and waste management services. Several demographic groups face significant barriers in this context, perpetuating socioeconomic and cultural inequalities.

Affected Demographic Groups

The groups most impacted by a lack of access include indigenous communities, quilombolas, residents of urban peripheries, and isolated rural populations. These communities often face extreme poverty, low education, and social exclusion. In addition, structural racism and historical marginalization contribute to the vulnerability of these groups.

Here are some examples of locations in Brazil where the aforementioned groups face significant challenges related to a lack of access:

Indigenous Communities: In the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, indigenous communities such as the Guarani-Kaiowá face difficulties related to the lack of land demarcation and access to basic services. Additionally, the Yanomami Indigenous Land, situated in Roraima, faces health and infrastructure challenges.

Quilombola Communities: The Kalunga quilombola territory in Goiás is an example of a community facing challenges related to food security and access to public policies. In Maranhão, which has the largest number of quilombola communities in the country, many locations still lack basic sanitation and adequate infrastructure.

Residents of Urban Peripheries: In the Maré Complex, Rio de Janeiro, residents face challenges such as a lack of basic sanitation and exposure to air pollution. In São João Clímaco, in the southern zone of São Paulo, the precariousness of infrastructure and sanitation also affects the quality of life.

Isolated Rural Populations: In western Pará, remote rural municipalities face geographic and organizational barriers that hinder access to health services and basic infrastructure. In addition, communities in the Amazon suffer from the lack of public policies that are appropriate to their local realities.

These examples illustrate the diversity of challenges faced by different groups in various regions of Brazil, highlighting the need for inclusive public policies and infrastructure investments to promote climate and social justice.

Reasons for Lack of Access

The lack of adequate infrastructure is one of the primary reasons for limited access. In rural and remote areas, the installation of electricity grids and transportation systems is limited due to high costs and low population density. In urban peripheries, the lack of planning and public investment exacerbates exclusion. Additionally, public policies often overlook the unique needs of these communities.

Types of Energy Used

In regions without access to renewable energy, residents rely on traditional sources, such as firewood and charcoal, for cooking and heating. These practices not only contribute to environmental degradation but also negatively affect the health of communities due to indoor air pollution.

Impact on Quality of Life

The lack of access to renewable energy, transportation, and waste management has profound impacts on the quality of life. Without electricity, educational and economic opportunities are limited. The lack of accessible public transportation makes it difficult to commute to work and access essential services. Inadequate waste management results in public health problems and environmental degradation.

 

Policies and Plans to Improve Access

Brazil has adopted some initiatives to address these challenges. The “Light for All” program seeks to universalize access to electricity, especially in rural areas. Additionally, policies are being implemented to encourage the use of solar and wind energy, promoting the energy transition. In the transportation sector, sustainable urban mobility projects, such as bus corridors and metro systems, are being expanded. However, much remains to be done to ensure that these solutions reach the most vulnerable communities.

Climate justice necessitates an integrated approach that takes into account socioeconomic and cultural disparities. Investments in infrastructure, inclusive policies, and community engagement are crucial to achieving a more equitable and sustainable future for all.

This Post was submitted by Climate Scorecard Brazil Country Manager Carlos Alexandre de Oliveira.