Remembering Sebastião Salgado: Celebrated Brazilian Photographer Passes Away at 81

Award-winning Brazilian photographer Sebastião Salgado has passed away at the age of 81, as announced by his nonprofit organization, Instituto Terra. His contributions to photography and environmental advocacy have left a significant mark on the world.

Instituto Terra shared the news on Instagram, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of their founder and mentor. They emphasized Salgado’s impact as a beacon of hope in times of devastation.

Salgado is survived by his partner, Lélia Deluiz Wanick Salgado, and their two sons and grandchildren. Together, they co-founded Instituto Terra to promote environmental restoration.

What made Salgado unique was not just his stunning photography but also his dedication to the environment. Initially trained as an economist, he shifted to documenting the effects of industry on nature. He captured issues from gold mining in Brazil to the oil fires in Kuwait, highlighting the urgent need for environmental awareness.

His last major work, “Amazônia,” showcases the beauty and richness of the Amazon rainforest. Salgado believed in presenting a vision of the Amazon free from destruction and fires. “We must look to our past,” he said in an interview, urging us to learn from history to shape a better future.

Salgado’s commitment to the environment was evident in his efforts to restore Brazilian woodlands. Over 22 years, he and volunteers planted more than 3 million trees in Brazil’s Atlantic Forest. He once remarked, “We can rebuild the planet that we destroyed, and we must.”

This dedication resonates today, especially as climate change continues to threaten our planet. According to recent statistics from the World Resources Institute, deforestation rates remain alarmingly high, highlighting the relevance of Salgado’s message.

As news of his passing spreads across social media, many are sharing their favorite photographs and tributes, showing how his work inspired countless individuals to appreciate and protect nature.

Salgado’s life exemplifies the power of art to evoke change and the responsibility we share in preserving our environment for future generations. His legacy will continue to inspire those who advocate for our planet. For more on Salgado’s work and impact, visit the Instituto Terra website.

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