Liebherr Cranes Aid Amazon Climate Research

Four Liebherr 85 EC-B tower cranes are supporting climate research at the AmazonFACE experimental site near Manaus, Brazil. Instead of undertaking conventional construction work, the cranes lift scientists above the rainforest canopy to study how the Amazon may respond to higher carbon dioxide levels in the coming decades.

AmazonFACE, or Free-Air Carbon Dioxide Enrichment, is led by Brazil’s National Institute for Amazonian Research in collaboration with the University of Campinas. The programme exposes an intact section of old-growth rainforest to projected future CO₂ concentrations, allowing researchers to assess changes in the forest canopy, soil, biodiversity and carbon absorption.

More than 150 specialists are involved in the initiative, including researchers from Brazil, the UK, Germany, Austria, the Netherlands and the US. Their findings are expected to support regional policies and international climate frameworks. The Amazon basin is estimated to store between 150 billion and 200 billion tonnes of carbon in its vegetation and soil.

Tower cranes were selected to minimise disturbance to the protected forest. Their compact masts require limited ground space, reducing potential damage to soil, tree roots and the canopy. The cranes can also cover extensive experimental plots without repeated repositioning.

The four units lift researchers to heights exceeding 45 metres, enabling them to measure CO₂ concentrations, plant physiology, microclimate conditions and biodiversity indicators above the canopy. The programme has secured the required national approvals and safety certifications for lifting personnel using tower cranes.

The Liebherr 85 EC-B flat-top crane offers a maximum jib length of 50 metres and a lifting capacity of up to 5,000 kg. Its controlled hoisting and slewing systems provide smooth movement, helping researchers transport sensitive instruments such as gas analysers, sensors and sampling equipment.

Two cranes were manufactured at Liebherr’s facility in Brazil, while the remaining units were produced in Spain. Liebherr-Brasil is also providing operator training, maintenance guidance, spare parts and technical assistance for the remote research site.

The deployment demonstrates how construction equipment can support scientific work while limiting its impact on environmentally sensitive areas."