Brazil's green ''guardian'' quits

May 15, 2008

Brazil's environment minister and a green champion has resigned after losing key battles in her efforts to protect the Amazon rain forest. Marina Silva's resignation is likely to reinforce the view that President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva is more concerned with economic development than conservation as a commodities export boom fuels Brazil's growth. It could also be a setback for Brazil's ambitions to become a major voice in global environmental debates.