Across the bay from COP30, police patrol Amazon island on buffaloes

SOURE, Brazil -As officials and activists gather in the Brazilian city of Belem for the COP30 United Nations climate talks, the town of Soure across the water on Marajo Island features an unusual mode of sustainable transport: buffaloes.

First brought from Asia in the 19th century, the water buffalo adapted easily to the island’s marshes and the animals now roam the streets, anchoring local agriculture and even featuring in the police force.

Their meat and milk are staples of local cuisine and fetch premium prices across Brazil. Buffaloes have become a symbol of local culture and resilience, defining Soure’s identity, economy and tourist appeal.

(Reporting by Anderson CoelhoWriting by Inigo AlexanderEditing by Brad Haynes and Frances Kerry)