From Pickaxes to AI: The Host State of COP30 Shapes the Future and Legacy of Amazon Mining

Written by Emily J. Thompson, Senior Investment Analyst

Source: Reuters

Updated: Nov 04 2025

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Source: Reuters

Historical Context: Lucindo Lima reflects on the Serra Pelada gold rush of the 1980s, where thousands of artisanal miners sought fortune, contrasting the past with the current dominance of large mining firms like Vale.
Environmental Impact: Illegal gold mining in the Amazon has led to severe environmental degradation, including deforestation and mercury poisoning, while Vale commits to preserving significant forest areas around its Carajas mine.
Technological Advancements: Vale is investing heavily in technology, including autonomous trucks and AI, to enhance operational efficiency at Carajas, which significantly outperforms the wealth generated from Serra Pelada.
Ongoing Aspirations: Despite the decline of Serra Pelada, miners like Cicero Pereira Ribeiro continue to search for gold, holding onto dreams of rediscovering the riches that once defined the area.

About the author

Emily J. Thompson

Emily J. Thompson, a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) with 12 years in investment research, graduated with honors from the Wharton School. Specializing in industrial and technology stocks, she provides in-depth analysis for Intellectia’s earnings and market brief reports.