The symbolic and political appropriation of scales: A critical analysis of the Amazonian ranchers' narrative

► This study analyzes discourses that delegitimize environmental issues in the Amazon. ► It shows how scale is being mobilized within struggles around the environment. ► Large-scale landowners claim they are local developers to delegitimize other actors. ► This paper demonstrates that their strategies are rooted in non-local levels. ► We demonstrate the efficiency of this well-conceived and publicized scalar scenarios.