Andreia Santos, Rafael Ferraz dos Santos, Victor Hugo Souza de Abreu, Sandra Oda.

Abstract: The chapter explores the opportunities arising from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and its current expansion into Latin American territory, analyzing dilemmas that emerge within the context of shifts in global geopolitics. The BRI, initially launched in 2013 to connect Asia, Eastern Europe, and Africa, aims to stimulate international trade by fostering collaboration with Chinese enterprises on a global scale. The initiative has incorporated Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) into its environmental cooperation program after a recommendation from the Chinese Council for International Cooperation on Environment and Development (CCICED), a government-affiliated think tank, to achieve domestic climate and biodiversity goals. The expansion of the BRI into Latin America brings significant implications, especially in the context of Sino-American rivalry and US influence in the region. This dynamic, constantly evolving, raises complex challenges, particularly regarding the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the 2030 Agenda. Within the scope of climate change, SDG 13—Climate Action—stands out due to its global relevance. Climate change directly affects ecosystems and communities worldwide, making it crucial to consider mitigation and adaptation strategies in development initiatives like the BRI. Furthermore, SDG 11—Sustainable Cities and Communities—is essential to consider as the infrastructure developed under the BRI can have significant impacts on urban and rural areas, influencing the quality of life and sustainable development of these communities. Therefore, while the BRI offers opportunities for economic development and regional connectivity, addressing environmental and social issues, adhering to sustainability principles, and seeking synergies with the SDGs, especially those related to climate action and sustainable community development, are crucial.

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