Deforestation in Brazil's Amazon Forest

In August, 2024, data suggest that deforestation in Brazil's Amazon rainforest increased in July for the first time in 15 months, breaking a streak of declining destruction.

Key Points

% Increase: Approximately 666 square kilometers (257 square miles) of the Amazon were cleared in July 2024, a 33% increase from 500 square kilometers (193 square miles) in July 2023, according to preliminary government data.
Overall Trends: Despite the July uptick, deforestation decreased by nearly 46% over the past year compared to the previous period, with 4,300 square kilometers lost, an area larger than Cape Verde.
Context and Causes: The rise in deforestation is partly attributed to a significant reduction in illegal activities in July 2023 and factors such as a drought in the Amazon, municipal elections, and an ongoing strike by environmental workers since June.
Impact of the Strike: The strike has hampered law enforcement, with fewer fines issued for deforestation and related crimes. Workers are seeking better wages and conditions from the federal environmental agencies Ibama and Icmbio, impacting enforcement efforts.
Presidential Pledge: President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva remains committed to ending deforestation in the Amazon by 2030.