The ceasing rhythm of the waters

The world’s most significant wetland lies in the heart of South America. The Pantanal is the size of Switzerland and usually floods every year for several months. People, plants and animals are adapted to the rhythm of the water.

Big cities grow on its border, fuelled by agriculture and cattle ranching. Many people still live in the countryside, where time seems to have stopped. The huge biodiversity attracts the tourists. Beautiful birds, big caimans and the powerful jaguar are easily spotted.

But the Pantanal suffers. Too many forests have been cut, especially in the headwaters. The springs don’t bring water to the rivers anymore.

And it does not rain as it used to. Far too little water reaches the wetland. The trees dry and fuel the fires that occur more and more frequently. Scientists and engaged people run, reforestation programs, they make a big effort to plant seedlings in order to re-establish the forest.

But the droughts and fires are too severe, and the battle is not won.

Pia Parolin, 2024