Description: (Brazilian environmentalist)
Chico Mendes was a Brazilian rubber tapper, trade union leader, and environmentalist known for his dedication to preserving the Amazon rainforest. He advocated for the rights of Brazilian peasants and Indigenous peoples, working to protect their lands and way of life. Mendes fought against deforestation and promoted sustainable environmental practices, ultimately sacrificing his life for these causes. His legacy endures through the Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation, which continues his mission to safeguard the environment and biodiversity.