BRAZIL: Stuart Ramsay investigates deforestation in Trairão.

The BR163 highway in Brazil has facilitated the transport of goods like beef and soy, leading to significant deforestation in the Amazon. Despite global condemnation, illegal logging continues, driven by economic benefits. The road has transformed the economy of Paris state but at a severe environmental cost. Under President Jair Bolsonaro, deforestation has increased, raising doubts about climate commitments. The once-thriving town of Dry Air Out has suffered economically as the forest recedes. The highway's development has replaced vital rainforest tributaries with tarmac, leaving isolated trees.

What has been the primary use of the BR163 highway over the past 40 years?

• Connecting major cities in Brazil

• Transporting agricultural and logging products

• Facilitating local trade within Brazil

• Transporting tourists to the Amazon

What is the main consequence of the logging activities along the BR163?

• Improved local infrastructure

• Destruction of ancient trees and deforestation

• Development of new urban areas

• Increased tourism in the Amazon

What is the significance of the 'tipping point' mentioned in the context of the Amazon rainforest?

• A point where the forest can no longer sustain itself

• A new tourist attraction

• A new law to protect the forest

• A milestone in economic development

How do local loggers, farmers, and ranchers view the economic impact of the BR163?

• As a minor change with little impact

• As a temporary phase

• As a threat to their livelihood

• As a necessary transformation despite environmental costs

What has been the impact of the BR163 on towns like Dry Air Out?

• Increased economic prosperity

• Decline in trade and economic activity

• Transformation into a tourist hub

• Improved connectivity with major cities