On Thursday, President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva signed a groundbreaking law designed to create the 'Policy of Reception and Management of Rescued Animals' known as Amar. This significant initiative aims to enhance the rescue, reception, and management of animals impacted by accidents, emergencies, and environmental disasters across Brazil. The government has stated that the implementation of this policy will require coordination among the federal, state, and municipal governments, ensuring that animal rescue efforts are fully integrated with the contingency plans of civil defense organizations.

The new law stipulates that rescue operations during emergencies must be conducted by trained teams, led by qualified professionals, and will include veterinary supervision to ensure the health and safety of the animals involved. Under this regulation, rescued animals are to receive essential services such as medical treatment, vaccination, identification, temporary shelter, and plans for their eventual return to owners or adoption. In the case of wild species, there are also provisions for their reintroduction into their natural habitats once they have been rehabilitated.

Additionally, this legislation imposes requirements on enterprises with environmental risks, mandating them to develop emergency plans for animal rescue. This proactive approach not only addresses the immediate need for animal welfare in times of crisis but also seeks to cultivate a broader awareness of the responsibilities of businesses concerning the environmental impact of their operations on wildlife. Overall, the 'Amar' policy represents a significant step forward in animal protection and disaster management in Brazil.