The article addresses the recurring theme of accusations against foreign entities purportedly trying to undermine local environmental movements, especially in reference to Brazil's agribusiness sector. It points out the tendency of some stakeholders in this sector to dismiss criticism of their practices by labeling opponents as being funded by international lobbies. A current example cited is the ongoing debate surrounding the use of the Tapajós River and the controversial waste-to-energy (WtE) proposal discussed in a recent piece in Folha, which advocates for incinerating solid waste to generate energy.

In discussing the WtE approach, the piece suggests that proponents present it as a clean and efficient solution to waste management in Brazil, aiming to convert rubbish into energy using modern combustion technologies. However, the article criticizes these claims for lacking supportive data regarding costs, effectiveness compared to other methods, and the potential effects on recycling rates. Instead of engaging with these critical comparisons and presenting a balanced debate, it suggests that some authors opt to undermine credibly the anti-WtE NGOs, accusing them of being funded by foreign interests without providing evidence for such claims.

This discourse raises important questions about the intersection of environmental policy, corporate interests, and the influence of international funding on local advocacy. It highlights the need for transparency and factual discourse in discussing environmental solutions like waste-to-energy, ensuring that corporate or governmental narratives do not overshadow valid environmental concerns that may arise from local communities and organizations. The echoes of this debate resonate in broader discussions about sustainability and corporate responsibility, especially in ecologically sensitive areas like the Amazon.