Description
Our investigation looks at the harmful effects of aerial pesticide spraying used to produce sugar and biofuel in Brazil. The drift from these chemicals creates a toxic cloud that envelops neighbouring communities, including homes and schools. Our investigation will examine the health impacts of this routine practice and trace the export of biofuels to the U.S. and Europe, where they are sold as a clean, “green” alternative to fossil fuels.
“We are thrilled to receive this grant, as it will allow us to map out the dangerous effects of pesticides on rural communities. Across Brazil, widespread harassment and political pressure have meant that scientists have struggled to thoroughly investigate the impacts of pesticides. We are excited that this grant will provide a much needed opportunity to fill this gap and we hope this will encourage future collaborations between journalists and scientists on this important topic.” — Beatriz Ramalho da Silva, Lighthouse Reports
Project Team
Media outlet
Lighthouse Reports
Utrecht, Netherlands
https://www.lighthousereports.com/
Beatriz Ramalho da Silva
Investigative reporter
Spain
Research organisation
Université Libre de Bruxelles
Brussels, Belgium
https://www.ulb.be/
Larissa Bombardi
Research fellow, agroecology lab
Belgium
