Global Forest Loss Slows but El Niño Fires Could Threaten Progress
New global data show tree-cover loss slowed last year, but researchers warned El Niño-driven drought and wildfires could reverse the gains. Policy progress in Brazil and Colombia's share of the Amazon is among the highlights.
A new report by the University of Maryland and the Global Forest Watch platform showed loss of tropical primary forest fell about 9% globally year on year. The decline came largely from Brazil's enforcement policies in the Amazon and from Colombia's negotiations with armed groups controlling forest territories. Researchers stressed total loss is still well above the level needed for global climate goals.
The data indicate Brazil cut Amazon deforestation by more than 30%, helped by satellite monitoring and tougher enforcement under the federal government. Bolivia, however, registered record loss while palm-oil pressure surged again in Indonesia. The report says meeting the global pledge to end deforestation by 2030 will be very difficult.
Experts worry this year's El Niño effects could trigger prolonged drought and major wildfires across the Amazon. Last year's dry season produced record-level fires in Brazil's Pará state. Researchers say gains could erode quickly unless governments significantly boost fire-prevention budgets.
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