This investigation reveals the connections between the European automotive industry and massive deforestation in Paraguay’s Chaco region.
It uncovers how major luxury car brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz purchase leather from Italian companies that, in turn, source the material from Paraguayan firms involved in illegal deforestation, particularly in Ayoreo Indigenous territories. Forest clearing is carried out to raise cattle, resulting in the loss of one-third of Paraguay’s forests this century. Despite previous reports, the situation has not improved.
The Chaco, home to Indigenous communities such as the Ayoreo Totobiegosode — one of the last uncontacted communities in Latin America — faces ongoing land invasions by agribusiness companies and Mennonite colonies. These activities severely impact biodiversity and the rights of Indigenous communities, who are fighting to protect their territories.
The investigation also highlights the challenges of tracing the origin of leather due to a lack of transparency in Paraguay. In response, some Italian tanneries, such as Pasubio, have begun committing not to buy leather linked to deforestation, though the industry remains opaque and difficult to regulate.
El cuero proveniente de Paraguay: cómo la producción de coches europeos arrasa con las tierras indígenas
Por Marta Saiz y Flavia Campeishttps://t.co/39NuHxdUGv
— Público (@publico_es) December 14, 2024