Amazon Deforestation Increases Amidst Drought and Human-Induced Fires
According to official data released on Thursday, deforestation in Brazil’s Amazon rainforest has increased by 4% over the past year. This reversal marks a shift from the steep decline observed in 2024 and foreshadows the upcoming annual deforestation rate, which will be announced in November, just before Brazil hosts the COP30 climate conference in Belém, an Amazonian city.
Key Figures and Context
- Deforestation in the Amazon reached 4,495 square kilometers over the past year, an area three times larger than São Paulo city.
- This 4% increase is the second-lowest annual deforested area since the series began in 2015.
- Fires accounted for 15% of the Amazon deforestation, the highest proportion since the series started.
Government Perspective and Environmental Concerns
Brazil’s environment minister, Marina Silva, attributed the rise to increased fires, often started by human activity. The government of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva links the growth in fires to the historical drought experienced in 2024.
Nonetheless, deforestation excluding fires decreased by 8% over the past year, which Silva considers a positive development. She stated that deforestation in the Amazon is now stabilized, with Brazil aiming for “zero deforestation” by 2030.
The Observatorio do Clima, an environmental NGO, noted that considering the extreme drought and record-breaking burned area last year, the deforested area should not be viewed negatively.
Joao Paulo Capobianco, the secretary of the environment, warned that climate change now aids deforestation efforts in the Amazon, with actors using fires as a tool for clearing land.
Positive Developments in Pantanal and Cerrado
In contrast, the Pantanal wetlands and Cerrado savannah, known for their exceptional biodiversity, have seen significant reductions in deforestation. The Pantanal experienced a 72% decrease, while the Cerrado saw a 21% reduction. This marks the first decline in Cerrado deforestation since 2021.
Upcoming Decisions and COP30
President Lula must decide before Friday whether to sign or veto a controversial bill on environmental license flexibility approved by Congress in July. This decision will likely influence Brazil’s stance on environmental protection as it prepares to host COP30.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the main reason for the increase in Amazon deforestation? Fires, often started by human activity, are primarily responsible for the 4% rise in deforestation.
- How does the Brazilian government explain the rise in fires? The government attributes the increase to historical drought conditions experienced in 2024.
- What are the deforestation rates in Pantanal and Cerrado? Deforestation in Pantanal decreased by 72%, and Cerrado saw a 21% reduction, marking the first decline since 2021.
- What is President Lula’s stance on deforestation and upcoming decisions? Brazil aims for “zero deforestation” by 2030. President Lula must decide on a controversial environmental bill before hosting COP30.
