Regarding John Vidal’s article (Why is Latin America so obsessed with mega dams?, 23 May), I would like to point out that swift and ample compensation was ensured to those affected by the Cachoeira Caldeirão incident to which he refers. The companies involved were duly deemed liable.
Experts recognise that hydropower will be key to reach global climate-change and sustainable development goals, particularly SDG7 on affordable and clean energy for everyone. As your story recognises, all the main international scientific bodies, agencies and experts studying climate and energy have found that hydropower is an indispensable part of the global energy transition. In the Amazon, even for large dams, such as Belo Monte and Jirau, Brazil uses the “run of the river” model, practically without reservoirs.
The question, therefore, should not be whether or not to use hydropower, but how to use it properly. Based on lessons learned, Brazil has developed a comprehensive legal, technical, environmental and social consultation process, including on terms of compensation, safeguards and corrective measures, aiming to guarantee that social, economic and environmental benefits are enjoyed by all, particularly local communities, fauna and flora.
Eduardo dos Santos
Ambassador of Brazil to the United Kingdom
• Join the debate – email guardian.letters@theguardian.com
• Read more Guardian letters – click here to visit gu.com/letters
