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In a bid to illuminate the lives of remote Amazon communities lacking access to renewable energy, Schneider Electric has announced plans to distribute solar lanterns to residents. The initiative, set to benefit over 20 thousand individuals, marks a significant step towards sustainable development in the region. Additionally, in collaboration with the Sustainable Amazon Foundation (FAS), the company has successfully installed a photovoltaic system in the community of Tumbira, situated 64 kilometers from Manaus (AM).
Milena Rosa, the sustainability and social responsibility manager at Schneider Electric, underscored the collaborative effort required to achieve this objective. The company aims to rally other entities within its ecosystem to join forces in delivering solar lanterns to remote areas. These lanterns, boasting a lifespan of approximately eight years and weather-resistant properties, offer a reliable source of illumination, with each charge lasting between six to 40 hours, depending on usage. Notably, last year’s initiative impacted around 10,500 individuals, with seven thousand residing within the Legal Amazon.
The benefits extend beyond mere illumination, as evidenced by the transformative impact observed in the Tumbira community. The introduction of solar power has facilitated social and economic empowerment, enabling electrification in key establishments such as inns, restaurants, and spaces dedicated to income generation through handicrafts. Moreover, the initiative is catalyzing tourism development in the region. Crucially, the electrification extends to residential areas and vital communal spaces including schools, carpentry workshops, and event venues.
Prior to the introduction of solar energy, residents heavily relied on polluting and expensive diesel generators, operating for a mere three to four hours per day. The project, initiated in 2012 and renewed in 2023, has made significant strides, with the company projecting that over 20 thousand individuals will benefit from ongoing initiatives by 2024.
Milena Rosa emphasized the broader significance of the initiative, stating, “From a sustainable energy source, we socially and economically empower the original peoples of the Legal Amazon, helping them to remain in their regions, developing their communities and acting as guardians of the Amazon, as well as keeping the forest standing against deforestation.” She reiterated that access to energy is a fundamental right, aligning with the seventh Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) of the UN, which aims to ensure safe, reliable, sustainable, and affordable energy for all by 2030.
Moreover, Schneider Electric recently joined the Amazon Impact Movement in March, aligning with the 2030 Ambition of the UN Global Compact. Launched in September 2023, the movement seeks to mobilize Brazilian companies in combating deforestation through concrete actions.
As Schneider Electric continues to illuminate the lives of remote Amazon communities, the initiative stands as a beacon of hope, driving sustainable development and environmental conservation in the region. |
