<
https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2026/sep/19/brazils-wind-farms-have-been-a-huge-success-so-why-isnt-everybody-reaping-the-benefits>
"Beneath the power lines cutting across Antonio de Souza’s property in Serra do
Mel, in north-east Brazil’s Rio Grande do Norte state, rows of cashew trees
once stood – until the clean energy company ordered them to be cut down.
De Souza cannot plant crops in the affected area and the tractor cannot be
driven through it in bad weather, as the driver risks an electric shock.
Cattle, another source of local income, are forbidden from grazing near the
cables.
The contract says the infrastructure occupies one hectare (2.5 acres); yet, the
farmer counters, four hectares have become wasteland on a 50-hectare plot that
was the family’s livelihood.
The story of Serra do Mel is one often heard in places where wind has provided
energy and development, a model now moving offshore. But still rarely discussed
is how the benefits can also harm local communities’ health and livelihoods."
Via Susan ****
Cheers,
*** Xanni ***
--
mailto:xanni@xanadu.net Andrew Pam
http://xanadu.com.au/ Chief Scientist, Xanadu
https://glasswings.com.au/ Partner, Glass Wings
https://sericyb.com.au/ Manager, Serious Cybernetics
