Monte do Carmo, a quiet city in Brazil’s Tocantins state with a rich historical heritage, is on the brink of an economic transformation due to the advent of a significant gold mining project worth R$ 1.4 billion.
Located in central Tocantins, approximately 95 km from Palmas, Monte do Carmo is poised for an economic transformation with the introduction of a gold mining project valued at US$ 250 million (around R$ 1.4 billion). Despite this massive investment, the city maintains its tranquil rural character and historical heritage that dates back to the 19th century. The local economy has traditionally relied on livestock farming and agriculture, primarily featuring soy, corn, and rice.
Access to the municipality is via the TO-050 highway, and Monte do Carmo spans about 3,600 square kilometers, with an estimated population of 5,600 according to the 2022 census by the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE). This yields a low population density of just 1.86 inhabitants per square kilometer, reflecting its rural nature. The potential changes brought by the gold mining project may lead to significant demographic and economic shifts in the area, raising questions about the impact on local lifestyles and traditions.
As development unfolds, the community may face both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, the economic boost could lead to job creation and infrastructure improvements; on the other, there is a concern about preserving its cultural identity and environmental sustainability. Monte do Carmo represents a microcosm of the broader debates surrounding resource extraction in Brazil, where indigenous rights and ecological balance must be carefully weighed against economic development pressures.
