VOICED : Ecuador aprueba explotar el Yasuni

The Yasuní National Park in Ecuador, known for its rich biodiversity, is also home to significant oil reserves. The Ecuadorian Congress has approved oil extraction in the park, a move supported by President Rafael Correa but opposed by indigenous and environmental groups due to potential environmental damage and threats to isolated indigenous communities. Correa's previous plan to avoid extraction in exchange for international funds failed. The government expects significant economic gains from oil extraction, which are intended to alleviate poverty, especially in the Amazon region.

What makes El Yasuní unique in the Amazon region?

• It has the highest biodiversity per square kilometer.

• It is the driest area in the Amazon.

• It is the only forest with no human inhabitants.

• It is the largest forest in the Amazon.

Why did the Ecuadorian Congress authorize oil extraction in El Yasuní?

• To exploit the 20% oil reserves located there.

• To build new infrastructure in the Amazon.

• To protect the biodiversity of the area.

• To increase tourism in the region.

Who strongly opposes the oil extraction in El Yasuní?

• International oil companies.

• Tourists visiting the Amazon.

• Local farmers and ranchers.

• Indigenous groups and environmentalists.

What was President Correa's initial plan to prevent oil extraction?

• To sell the oil reserves to a foreign country.

• To relocate indigenous communities.

• To develop alternative energy sources.

• To receive international financial support.

How does Ecuador plan to use the revenue from oil extraction?

• To build new cities in the Amazon.

• To combat poverty, especially in the Amazon.

• To fund military operations.

• To invest in international markets.