About the speaker
Bethan John is a freelance environmental journalist who’s passionate about leading adventurous expeditions to unearth stories on environmental and social injustice. She’s been published in leading international news outlets, reporting on the complex social, economic and environmental issues facing marginalised communities living in some of the most biodiverse places on Earth. She’s just launched a new documentary, Voices on the Road, that explores indigenous rights and biodiversity conservation in the remote Peruvian Amazon.
“Road in the Amazonas rainforest”
Deep in the remote Peruvian Amazon a road is quietly destroying a protected rainforest, causing conflict and fear. But for some indigenous communities, desperate for change, it also brings hope.
The road is cutting through a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the Manu Biosphere Reserve – and opening it up to the outside world. Many indigenous communities are struggling to live in this ‘paradise’ and the road brings the promise of a better life. But at what cost?
Environmental journalist, Bethan John, explores why many indigenous people have been campaigning tirelessly for this road to be built, despite the dangers it brings.
Will the realities of road connection meet their expectations and why are they prepared to risk it all? The stakes are high, both for them and this globally important forest…