Crisis in the Amazon
Emergency
Crisis in the Amazon
Right now, the Amazon rainforest is burning at an alarming rate. We must work together to stop this human-made disaster that will have far-reaching, global effects.
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The Situation
An unprecedented number of fires are burning in the Amazon Rainforest, which stretches over Bolivia, Brazil and Peru. It is believed that these fires are being deliberately set to clear land for agricultural use, leading to the devastating destruction of the Amazon.
This situation is being called the world's most urgent environmental crisis. As of August 24, about 15 per cent of the Amazon has burned in the fires, which will have a lasting global impact on our environment. Experts indicate that the effects of climate change are likely to accelerate now that hectare after hectare of precious, oxygen-producing rainforest has gone up in smoke.
This is a crisis we cannot ignore. The Amazon produces a significant portion of our global oxygen, and we must respond swiftly and effectively to protect both local and global populations.
What is Oxfam Doing?
Oxfam has a presence in the hardest-hit area of Bolivia through CIPCA and Colectivo Rebeldía, meeting the urgent needs of those who were forced to flee their homes due to the fires.
To date, approximately 2,000 families are affected in 9 municipalities across Bolivia.
Your generous donation to Oxfam will help us to deliver clean, safe water, emergency food, hygiene support and livelihood programs to those affected by the fires.
In all, approximately 2,000 families are affected in 9 municipalities across Bolivia.
Oxfam has coordinated with other actors in the region, and we are focusing on the following:
- Potable water storage and distribution for up to 1,000 families in the short-term
- Emergency food distribution
- Clean water, safe sanitation facilities, promoting good hygiene practices through participatory activities and providing essential hygiene items
- Supporting the most vulnerable people to produce food for themselves and develop livelihoods to support their basic needs