Earth Stewardship, Climate Change, and Low Carbon Consciousness: Reflections from Brazil and South America

Abstract

The planet has entered the Anthropocene, a period in which humanity is the main driver of Earth systems changes. The effects of these fast and profound changes have been devastating for several fellow species – extinct or threatened to be extinct – and endanger a great part of the human population. In order to rebalance human interests and the equilibrium of the planet, Earth Stewardship, paradigm in which humanity recognizes itself as a co-inhabitant and steward of the planet, should be implemented. However, deep-rooted cultural traits can be stumbling blocks to the development of this new planetary ethics, and this is the case for South America. This chapter discusses the foundations of a new planetary ethics in South America and the challenges for its implementations, exemplified by one of the most contemporary complex issues, climate change.