This Week on Americas Now: Charcoal Usage and Deforestation in Haiti
Americas Now
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Charcoal is a primary energy source in Haiti, particularly for cooking, which contributes to the annual deforestation of more trees. The high demand for charcoal, combined with unsustainable farming practices and internal displacement, has led to rapid deforestation. Haiti shares the island of Hispaniola with the Dominican Republic, but the Dominican side has a much greener landscape. Correspondent Jason Motlagh traveled to Haiti to explain why and how nearly all the local forests have been destroyed.
Catatumbo: A Hotspot of Violence in Colombia
Catatumbo is a vast rural region in northeastern Colombia, stretching from the Andes Mountains into Venezuelan territory. In early 2025, it became the epicenter of violent clashes between armed groups, resulting in more than 80 deaths and forcing thousands to flee. Michelle Begue reports on the causes of the violence in Colombia and the government's response.
Brazil's Rich Biodiversity and Wildlife Monitoring
Brazil is one of the most biodiverse countries on the planet. It ranks high in both plant and animal species and features a variety of ecosystems, including the Amazon rainforest, the Atlantic Forest, the Cerrado savanna, and the Pantanal wetlands. One way scientists study and monitor animal species is by using “camera traps” that automatically record their movement. The cameras have transformed wildlife assessment. Monitoring is often carried out by groups of amateur citizen scientists who share their data.
Buy Canadian: Shifting Trade Dynamics in 2024
In 2024, Canada was the top destination for US exports, while the United States remained Canada’s largest export market. However, tariffs affected the trade landscape. Now Canadian consumers are quickly adjusting their habits. Canadian companies are diversifying their trade partners, and retailers are seeking alternatives to American-made products. Mike Kirsch visited Vancouver—home of Canada’s largest port—to report on the “Buy Canadian” movement. As consumers focus more on local products, they also purchase goods from countries such as Mexico and China.
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