A new economic model focused on sustainable use of the Amazon’s resources and supporting indigenous communities could transform conservation efforts while improving local livelihoods. Researchers from six countries propose this innovative approach, called socio-bioeconomy (SBE), as a path to protect the world’s largest rainforest and its inhabitants.
Rethinking Amazonian Economics
For decades, large-scale deforestation and exploitation of the Amazon have been justified in the name of economic development. However, this approach has failed to deliver widespread benefits to local communities. Professor Rachael Garrett from the University of Cambridge explains:
“Half a century of deforestation and exploitation of the Amazon has not resulted in widespread development, and now the economic value of deforested areas is threatened, not to mention the threats to the global climate and water security.”
The Amazon basin contains over half of the world’s remaining rainforest and stores vast amounts of carbon. Yet, ongoing deforestation and climate change put much of this crucial ecosystem at risk. Beyond its global importance, the Amazon is home to numerous indigenous peoples and thousands of plant and animal species.
The proposed SBE model aims to build on the successes of indigenous and traditional communities. It focuses on using and restoring Amazonian ecosystems sustainably while supporting local populations. Examples of SBE activities include eco-friendly tourism and the sustainable harvest of plant products for foods, beverages, clothing, and medicines.
Implementing the SBE Model
To make the SBE model a reality, the researchers call for significant increases in social mobilization, technology, and infrastructure support. Key policy changes would include:
1. Redirecting government subsidies from agribusiness to smaller-scale sustainable development
2. Establishing public procurement programs that source food from indigenous and small farming communities
3. Redirecting finance toward conservation and restoration activities
4. Supporting community enterprises
5. Ensuring participatory processes for inclusive, long-term benefits
Professor Garrett cites the footwear brand Veja as an example of SBE principles in action. The company purchases rubber for its sneakers from small-scale Amazonian farmers, focusing on building sustainable communities without relying on traditional advertising.
Why it matters: The SBE model offers a potential solution to protect the Amazon’s biodiversity, support indigenous rights, and mitigate climate change while fostering economic development. If successful, this approach could be adapted for other regions facing similar conservation and development challenges.
Critics may argue that implementing such a radical economic shift is unrealistic. However, the researchers contend that the current model is unsustainable and that change is necessary. “The conventional economic model is simply not sustainable,” says Garrett.
Questions remain about how quickly an SBE model could be scaled up and whether it can compete with the short-term profits of extractive industries. Additionally, ensuring equitable distribution of benefits within local communities will be crucial for the model’s success.
As the global community grapples with climate change and biodiversity loss, the SBE model presents a promising avenue for reconciling conservation and development goals. The researchers emphasize that political will is essential for making this vision a reality. Future studies will likely focus on pilot projects demonstrating the feasibility and impacts of SBE initiatives in various Amazonian contexts.
