Violent drug gangs rule the vast slums, or favelas, that are home to nearly a fifth of Rio de Janeiro's population. Away from the slums, the city's beaches, Carnival, and scenery attract tourists from around the world. Foreign businesses are drawn here because of abundant energy supplies and large commercial and financial sectors. Pollution is severe, but investment in fuel based on locally grown sugarcane is lowering emissions. Rio's universities have also created a ""green map"" to show residents how to care for the environment, and city authorities have invested in a massive favela improvement program. ""Rio de Janeiro"" will help readers explore this multifaceted city of seven million. Covering Rio's colonial history and its Native American, European, and African influences, this comprehensive profile examines the impact of the city's incredible growth, and its future prospects.

 

This book is aimed at children in secondary school.

There are 61 pages in this book. This book was published 2006 by Chelsea House Publishers .

Simon Scoones is a writer and researcher on environmental issues and education. He has travelled widely across six continents and has taught in international schools in Singapore and Antwerp. He is now the Development Education Manager for Worldaware, a London-based educational organization.