Brazilian Indigenous Activist Sineia Do Vale Shifts from Local Research to International Indigenous Caucus for COP30
In 1992, Sineia do Vale began her career at the Indigenous Council of Roraima (CIR), setting the stage for her future leadership in indigenous rights and climate change advocacy. Over the years, she has made significant strides in promoting sustainable land and climate change management in the Serras and Lavrado regions, as well as helping Indigenous communities adapt to climate change.
One of her earliest achievements was the development of the first Land and Climate Change Management Plans in these regions in 2011. This marked a significant milestone in the conservation and management of indigenous lands in Brazil.
In 2006, Do Vale became an environmental manager, and in 2009, she coordinated the creation of the CIR's Department of Land and Climate Change Management. This department integrated Traditional Knowledge with contemporary issues like climate change and REDD+, fostering a unique approach to climate change management that respects and values indigenous wisdom.
In 2009, Do Vale's work in the climate change field was further recognised when she was nominated by the Coordination of the Indigenous Organizations of the Brazilian Amazon. This led to her participation in the formulation of the National Policy for Territorial and Climate Change Management of Indigenous Lands.
Do Vale's advocacy work expanded beyond Brazil's borders in 2011, when she attended her first COP (Conference of the Parties) in Durban, South Africa. Since then, she has remained active in international climate change advocacy, including her current role as Co-chair of the Indigenous Peoples Caucus of the UNFCCC.
In 2015, Do Vale was elected to the steering committee of Brazilian policy for territorial and climate change management of indigenous areas. Her expertise and leadership in this field have been recognised, and she continues to make a significant impact in the region.
Through her work, Do Vale has implemented 27 Planos de Vida (Life Plans) to help Indigenous communities cope with and adapt to climate change. Her training methodology is co-creation, built together with Indigenous agents. This approach ensures that the solutions developed are culturally sensitive and effective.
Do Vale is also a member of the Indigenous Committee on Climate Change and advocates for Indigenous lands to be included in Nationally Determined Contributions to combat climate change. She emphasises her presence in the UNFCCC is for qualified political advocacy with Indigenous diplomacy and collective strategies.
Looking ahead, Do Vale expects the COP in Belém, Pará to deepen the listening of Indigenous voices. The Indigenous Caucus, a regional caucus with representatives from the world’s seven sociocultural regions, will play a crucial role in this process. The Indigenous Peoples Caucus of the UNFCCC, a space built by Indigenous Peoples, will continue to be a platform for climate change advocacy and collective action.
Do Vale's work in the climate change field started in 1998 during a drought in Roraima, and her dedication to this cause has only grown stronger over the years. Her contributions to indigenous rights and climate change sustainability are significant, and her continued advocacy is essential in ensuring a sustainable future for Indigenous communities.
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