In Brazil, a series of devastating wildfires, fueled by scorching temperatures and relentless droughts, has inflicted profound losses on the country's treasured national parks.
The iconic Chapada Dos Guimaraes National Park in the State of Mato Grosso is grappling with the aftermath of three successive wildfires. The onslaught has compelled a temporary shutdown of the park as firefighters waged a desperate battle against the encroaching flames.
According to park officials, the fires erupted from distinct origins, ravaging a staggering 9,000 hectares of land, which amount to nearly a third of the park's expanse.
This sanctuary is a haven for biodiversity, boasting 659 plant species, 44 fish species, and 76 mammal species. Over 200 avian species, such as the vibrant red-and-green macaw, thrive within its boundaries. Yet, the relentless wildfires and unyielding drought have disrupted food chains and ravaged habitats crucial to these creatures' survival.
The repercussions of wildfires have dealt a severe blow to the local tourism sector.
"Tourism is the backbone of our economy here. The scenery is incredibly beautiful in this area. But now, due to the heavy smoke from the fire, the once beautiful landscapes have been destroyed, and tourism has become very bleak," said Asad, a local travel agency manager.
"The air quality is terrible now, filled with the unpleasant smell of burning. We tour guides have also lost our income, because no tourists are willing to come," said Natalie, a local tour guide.
Wildfires harm Brazilian national park, tourism takes hit
Wildfires harm Brazilian national park, tourism takes hit
Wildfires harm Brazilian national park, tourism takes hit
Macao has been emerging as a global hub for conventions and exhibitions in recent years by exploring the enormous opportunities in the sector, driving the region to advance its economic diversification and embrace a brighter future.
Macao has received many awards this year, such as the Best Convention City (Asia) and the Best BT-MICE City, showcasing the recognition for and influence of Macao's exhibition industry.
More than 1,000 electronic game enthusiasts from all over the world gathered recently in Macao to participate in a esports themed event.
Su Zhili, organizer of the event, said that Macao's rich experience in hosting large-scale events, coupled with its good infrastructure, has driven him to choose the region as an ideal destination to hold such an activity.
"Macao has held many similar large-scale events. It has rich experience, and the facilities at the venue are relatively mature, so we can start our work comfortably," said Su.
During the first three quarters of 2024, Macao held more than 1,000 conferences and exhibitions in total.
"We will invite more professional, special conferences to be held in Macao and also cultivate more exhibition brands with international influence in Macao, so as to promote Macao's exhibitions to be more market-oriented, professional, international, digital and greener from various aspects. This is our goal," said Elaine Wong, member of the Macao Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute.
In addition, multiple large exhibitions and conferences, such as the Macao International Trade and Investment fair, the Macao Franchise Expo, and the International Infrastructure Investment and Construction Forum, are held regularly in Macao.
With the introduction of a series of policies and measures to facilitate the exchanges between the mainland and Macao, as well as the construction and development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, Macao's convention and exhibition industry will embrace more opportunities for development in the foreseeable future.
"We have such a good industrial base in the Greater Bay Area. The mode of 'Convention and Exhibition + Industry' not only integrates the industries of Macao, but also the industries of the Greater Bay Area. In addition, Macao actively integrates into the national development and plays a role in the Belt and Road. Why are we so confident in Macao's convention and exhibition sector? Because it is backed by the motherland, and the country gives Macao great support," said Alan Ho, chairman of the Macao Association of Convention, Exhibition and Tourism Sectors.
Macao emerges as global hub for conventions and exhibitions, driving economic diversification and international recognition
