Brazil's congress passed a controversial environmental bill, weakening environmental safeguards and prompting outrage from activists. Dubbed the "devastation bill," it streamlines environmental licensing, allowing self-declaration for many projects, potentially leading to widespread deforestation and harming Indigenous communities. President Lula da Silva can veto it, but congress might overturn the veto, leading to a supreme court battle. Critics call it the worst environmental setback in 40 years, undermining Brazil's image ahead of COP30.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.