Rio de Janeiro enacts law to plant trees in favelas

Rio de Janeiro Mayor Eduardo Cavaliere has sanctioned Law 9.669, establishing the Municipal Afforestation Plan for Favelas. The initiative aims to plant and maintain trees in areas inhabited by approximately 1.3 million people across 813 favelas and urban communities.

The legislation seeks to combat extreme heat, prevent environmental disasters, and address climate injustice in socially vulnerable areas. Data from the 2022 IBGE Census highlights significant disparities in green coverage; while 70% of residents outside favelas live on tree-lined streets, only 26.5% of favela residents have similar access. In specific areas like Rio das Pedras, the figure drops to just 3.5%.

Priority will be given to regions with high temperatures, low vegetation, critical urban density, and histories of landslides. The plan mandates community involvement through public hearings and the creation of local worker cooperatives for maintenance. Additionally, at least 50% of the species planted must be fruit-bearing. The law takes effect 90 days after official publication, pending executive regulation.