Putting a Stop to Oil Exploration in the Amazon

In April 2023, Petrobras was on the verge of initiating a new wave of oil extraction in the mouth of the Amazon River. And historically, oil and Petrobras had been a source of pride and pathway to economic development for Brazilians. Swift action was needed to block all licensing attempts while simultaneously reshaping Brazilians’ perceptions to reflect that oil cannot be central to the country’s future.

Our strategy was based on the thinking that If we encouraged local communities and key audiences to pressure the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources (IBAMA) and other decision-makers, then we could move public opinion about oil as an engine for development. This would create political cover to advance policies to prevent oil exploration in the Amazon, as well as elevating the political cost of pushing an energy transition that is not based on green, renewable sources.

Over four months, we responded to the rapidly changing political environment with diverse yet aligned interventions. We consistently built civil society power and elevated local voices, creating critical political cover digitally, in the streets, and at meetings of key decision-makers. Activities included a digital influencers campaign targeting progressive youth, an earned media campaign, community workshops, panel discussions, and participation in city, state and international convenings.

Following our initial mobilization, IBAMA denied the Amazon drilling, and our sustained efforts have continued to keep it at bay. Through deep collaboration with grassroots Amazon organizations, we’ve empowered local leaders to co-create strategies, participate in critical discussions, and implement impactful interventions.

Our community engagement included 235 participants across 7 workshops in 10 communities and 100 attendees for 4 Amazon dialogue panels, strengthening local advocacy. We also connected 10 influencers with 6 local organizations, resulting in 56 pieces of content that amplified voices from the Amazon.

This collective storytelling earned 651,717 impressions and 51,452 interactions, while our digital call to action achieved 40,744 impressions and 47,905 views. Our efforts culminated in 31 pieces of earned media, expanding awareness and support for protecting the Amazon.

Together, we’re building a movement that resonates locally and globally, keeping the Amazon safeguarded for future generations.