Yuvelis Morales Blanco, a 24-year-old rights of nature defender, helped halt fracking along Colombia’s largest river and one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. She has faced death threats and exile for her advocacy.
Introduction
Yuvelis Morales Blanco grew up along the banks of Colombia’s Magdalena River and learned to read the water as a child. Her connection to nature led her to become a defender of the rights of nature, fighting to protect the river and its biodiversity.
The Fight Against Fracking
Fracking is a method of extracting oil and gas that involves injecting water and chemicals into rocks to release the resources. However, this method can cause significant environmental damage, including water contamination and habitat destruction.
Yuvelis Morales Blanco opposed fracking in the Magdalena River, arguing that it could cause irreparable damage to biodiversity and human health. Her fight was recognized internationally, and she received the Goldman Prize, one of the most prestigious environmental awards in the world.
Global Implications
Yuvelis Morales Blanco’s fight has global implications, as fracking is an increasingly common method of resource extraction around the world. The protection of the Magdalena River and its biodiversity is an example of how local communities can organize to defend the environment and human health.
Conclusion
Yuvelis Morales Blanco’s story is an inspiring example of how people can mobilize to defend the environment and human health. Her fight against fracking in the Magdalena River is a reminder that environmental protection is a shared responsibility for all.
Source / Reference: https://insideclimatenews.us2.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7c733794100bcc7e083a163f0&id=0f82a3f212&e=9c8d2e8aae