Historic Low Deforestation in Brazil's Atlantic Forest Amid Political Concerns
Brazil’s Atlantic forest records lowest deforestation in 40 years
The Guardian
Image: The Guardian
Brazil's Atlantic forest recorded its lowest deforestation level in 40 years, with only 8,658 hectares cleared in 2025. Environmentalists celebrate this achievement but warn of potential setbacks due to a new law weakening protections and the threat of a far-right government returning to power in the upcoming elections.
- 01Deforestation in Brazil's Atlantic forest fell below 10,000 hectares for the first time since 1985.
- 02Environmentalists fear political changes could reverse recent gains in forest protection.
- 03The new 'devastation bill' weakens environmental laws, allowing local authorities to authorize deforestation without federal oversight.
- 04The Atlantic forest now has only 24% of its original cover, making it the most urbanized and degraded biome in Brazil.
- 05If current trends continue, there is hope for 'zero deforestation' within three years.
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In a significant environmental achievement, Brazil's Atlantic forest recorded its lowest deforestation level since monitoring began, with only 8,658 hectares cleared in 2025. This marks the first time deforestation has fallen below 10,000 hectares since 1985, reflecting a 40% reduction from the previous year. However, environmentalists express concern over potential political shifts that could undermine these gains. The recent approval of the 'devastation bill' in Brazil's congress, which weakens environmental protections, poses a significant threat. Additionally, the upcoming presidential election features Flávio Bolsonaro, son of former president Jair Bolsonaro, who is tied in polls with current president Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The elder Bolsonaro's administration saw a surge in deforestation, and fears abound that his son's policies could lead to a similar trajectory. Despite the positive trend, the Atlantic forest remains critically endangered, with only 24% of its original cover remaining. Environmental advocates believe that continued public pressure and effective policies could lead to 'zero deforestation' within the next three years, but the new law complicates this goal by allowing local authorities to bypass federal environmental oversight.
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The decline in deforestation is crucial for preserving biodiversity and combating climate change, but the weakening of environmental laws poses risks to these gains.
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