Introduction
As newly elected president Abelardo de la Espriella pledges to exploit oil reserves, environmentalists prepare to defend climate progress.
For Yuvelis Morales Blanco, now 25, it is hard to pinpoint when her activism started. She recalls getting involved in land rights and environmental issues in Santander, northern Colombia, from a young age. Living near water, she says, has always shaped her connection to nature. "My parents are fishers on the Magdalena, Colombia’s most important river," says Morales. "For us, the river isn’t just food – it embodies life, identity and culture".
The Fight Against Oil Extraction
In April, she received the Goldman environmental prize for her leadership in Puerto Wilches, where she succeeded in halting oil extraction and fracking. Yet, it seems her struggle is only just beginning.
The election of Abelardo de la Espriella as president of Colombia has raised concerns about the future of the environment in the country. De la Espriella has promised to exploit Colombia's oil reserves, which could have disastrous consequences for the climate and biodiversity.
The Resistance of Activists
Yuvelis Morales Blanco and other environmental activists in Colombia are preparing to resist the far-right push for fossil fuels. They argue that the exploitation of oil and gas is not only harmful to the environment but also to the local communities that depend on these natural resources.
"We won’t give up, we’ll keep fighting," says Morales. "Our fight is not just against oil extraction, but also for climate justice and the rights of the affected communities".
Conclusion
The struggle of activists in Colombia is an inspiring example of resistance against environmental exploitation and climate injustice. As the world continues to fight against climate change, it is essential that we support and amplify the voices of these activists, who are on the front lines of the fight to protect the planet.
Source / Reference: The Guardian Environment