Good morning! Today, the Senate has been busy, approving bills on carbon markets and revenue and altering the functioning of the Supreme Court — potentially causing a rift with justices.
☕ If you like our work and want to give us an extra boost, you can fill up our reporters’ coffee mugs. Supporters get exclusive perks! Find out more.
Carbon emission regulations advance in Congress
The Senate Environment Committee on Wednesday approved a government bill to regulate Brazil’s carbon market. The bill was fast-tracked, meaning it bypassed a floor vote before being sent to the House.
Why it matters. Carbon markets have become one of the most widespread tools in the fight against climate change. “We are closer than ever to having the first market instrument for Brazilian climate policy,” says Natalie Unterstell, head of the Talanoa Institute, a climate-focused think tank.
State of play. The former Jair Bolsonaro administration issued provisional decrees on the issue of carbon markets, which have been revoked. Experts say they failed to establish mandatory goals for carbon emission cuts and could have created legal uncertainty, ultimately endangering the environment.
Good rules. The Talanoa Institute praises the bill’s provisions for creating carbon emission reduction...