Bolivia in Crisis:

Original in Spanish by Laura Esmeralda Jauregui Velasco:

Forest Fires Devastate Millions of Hectares

Volunteers and firefighters fighting fires, on November 16, 2023. Photo: Cristian Castro.

Bolivia, a country with rich biodiversity, located in the heart of South America, faces an alarming environmental crisis that threatens not only its natural heritage, but also the communities that depend on it. Currently, more than 50% of the Bolivian territory is engulfed in flames, seriously affecting five of its natural reserve parks. With nearly 3 million hectares burned and the estimated loss of 10 million wild animals, indigenous people from nearby places losing their homes, the magnitude of the tragedy extends beyond the flames, reaching higher levels of air pollution at global level. Despite this critical situation, the government refuses to declare a state of emergency and request international help.

Bolivia is home to unique biodiversity, but this wealth is being consumed by flames. Five national parks, including Madidi National Park and Noel Kempff Mercado, considered one of the most diverse in the world, are in danger. The country is witnessing the loss of habitats, leaving desolation in its wake and threatening emblematic species.

Bolivia faces an environmental crisis that goes beyond the statistics of burned hectares; It is an emergency that threatens biological diversity, endangers the survival of species and deeply affects the communities that have coexisted with these ecosystems. The magnitude of the destruction is a wake-up call for immediate action, both nationally and internationally, to safeguard the natural wealth that is at stake.

The figure of at least 13 million animals affected and 9 million dead reveals a devastating context in terms of wildlife. The Bolivian fauna is being devoured by the flames. Malnutrition and lack of water amid the drought caused by fires have turned these forests into cemeteries of biodiversity.

Animal affected by the forest fire, on November 15, 2023. EFE

The fires not only threaten biodiversity, but have also forced the displacement of entire communities. Indigenous populations who have depended on these forests for centuries now face the loss of their lands and the destruction of their cultural heritage. The authorities appear to be ignoring the pressing needs of these vulnerable groups.

As the crisis escalates, the Bolivian government has refused to ask for international help, despite calls from activists and opposition leaders. The lack of coordination and external support raises questions about the government's ability to address the magnitude of the disaster. The rejection of past experience shows a lack of political will to face the emergency. This lack of action has generated criticism and increased desperation among indigenous communities who are losing their homes and traditional ways of life.

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Air pollution:

The forest fires in Bolivia have generated dense atmospheric pollution, turning the air in some of its main cities, such as Santa Cruz, La Paz, Cochabamba and Beni, into one of the most polluted in the world. This crisis has not only led to the cancellation of flights and daily activities, but has also affected public health, compromising the visibility and quality of life of citizens.

The massive pollution generated by the fires in Bolivia not only has local repercussions, but also contributes to the global climate crisis. Emissions of polluting gases and particles will affect air quality worldwide, exacerbating existing environmental problems and accelerating climate change.

Smoke from forest fires over the main cities of Bolivia. Photo: Ministry of Defense.

Bolivia is on the brink of an environmental and humanitarian catastrophe. The government's resistance to face reality and seek international support raises questions about its commitment to protecting its biodiversity and the well-being of its citizens. Bolivia's ability to overcome this crisis will depend not only on effectively putting out the fires, but also on a global commitment to address long-term impacts on the environment and wildlife.

It is shocking to see how many countries and politicians, even at the local level, ignore the massive death of animals and the destruction of fauna. Furthermore, it is heartbreaking to see the lack of humanity towards people from nearby communities who are left homeless due to these disasters. So it is essential that international organizations intervene and pressure the Bolivian government to implement stricter laws regarding burning, especially during times of drought. This is not the first case in which agricultural burning causes uncontrolled fires in the country, due to low fines and lack of interest in finding those responsible.

It is crucial that we stop perceiving the problems of other countries as foreign and begin to act in solidarity to build a better world. During these four months of constant fires in Bolivia, we have lost millions of trees, which underlines the urgency of taking concrete measures. The tragedy in Bolivia urges us to look beyond borders and nationalities and assume the collective responsibility of caring for our only home; the earth.

Therefore, I call on all people, regardless of their country of origin, to plant a tree. By uniting in this cause, we not only contribute to the benefit of all, but also work together to preserve the environment for future generations.