Deforestation in the Amazon
Deforestation in the Amazon is sounding the alarm – how can we stop it?
Considered one of the most important ecosystems on the planet, the Amazon rainforest plays a key role in building a greener future. But in recent decades it has suffered significant forest loss, largely driven by human activity. Below, we outline the alarming figures, the consequences for the planet and humanity and the solutions being proposed.
Covering an area of around seven million square kilometres, the Amazon is the largest tropical rainforest on the planet. It spans nine South American countries, notably Bolivia, Peru, Colombia, and especially Brazil, which holds a significant portion of its forested area. Recognized as one of the seven natural wonders of the world, it is considered the planet’s lungs, as well as a unique biodiversity reserve and home to ancestral indigenous cultures that help us better understand who we are.
Deforestation in the Amazon today
In recent decades, the Amazon has experienced significant forest loss. Since 1970, according to Greenpeace data, the Brazilian portion alone has lost an area larger than France. Historical data show that deforestation has gone through different phases, with periods of sharp increase and others of relative containment. Nevertheless, pressure on the Amazon ecosystem remains high, particularly during the dry season, when fires and forest degradation intensify.
SEE INFOGRAPHIC: Deforestation of the Brazilia Amazon in recent years [PDF]
Causes of deforestation in the Amazon
A significant portion of forest loss in the Amazon is directly or indirectly linked to the expansion of cattle ranching. The conversion of large areas of rainforest into pasture has historically been one of the main drivers of land transformation. Indeed, regions with the highest rates of deforestation and fires often coincide with areas where cattle ranching is prevalent.
Another major cause of deforestation is logging. Tree-felling activities, largely carried out illegally, contribute significantly to ecosystem degradation. The current international market for tropical timber relies heavily on the destruction of the Amazon rainforest, increasing pressure on vast areas of this tropical forest.
Consequences of deforestation in the Amazon
Unsurprisingly, deforestation in the Amazon has serious adverse effects, including:
Global warming
The Amazon plays a key role in climate regulation as one of the planet’s major natural carbon sinks. Reducing its forested area diminishes its capacity to absorb carbon dioxide, leading to higher concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. This dynamic contributes to climate change, raising global temperatures.
Loss of biodiversity
The Amazon is one of the world’s most biologically diverse ecosystems. It is home to an extraordinary variety of animal and plant species, many of which have yet to be thoroughly studied. The destruction of their habitat pushes them to the brink of extinction, driving biodiversity loss.
Health risks
As the World Health Organization (WHO) explains, human health depends on balanced ecosystems that provide essential resources such as clean air, fresh water, natural medicines and food security. For the Amazon, as the largest tropical rainforest on the planet, ongoing deforestation could lead to a significant increase in infectious diseases linked to environmental degradation.
International Day of Forests
We join the conservation and restoration of forests with different programmes.
We respect the environment
We base our sustainable business model on the circular economy.
We protect natural ecosystems
We integrate the SDG 14 and SDG 15 to preserve life on land and underwater.
Climate Action Policy
We assume a position of leadership in the fight against climate change.
Solutions to d eforestation in the Amazon
Protecting the Amazon requires the coordinated involvement of different actors across society. Environmental organisations agree that only through shared commitments can forest loss be halted and progress made towards a more sus tainable model.
Public authorities
Countries that share this territory have a decisive responsibility for its conservation. It is essential that governments implement zero - deforestation policies to reverse the current situation.
Companies
The private sector directly influences land - use dynamics through its supply chains. Companies are called upon to adopt corporate responsibility policies that prevent their involvement in projects that have any negative impact on the Amazon.
International organisations
Multilateral institutions can act as catalysts for change by creating regulatory frameworks. For example, the European Union is urged to adopt measures to prevent the trade of commodities linked to Amazon deforestation.
Civil society
Individual choices also make a difference. Adopting a sustainable lifestyle, including reduced meat consumption, helps decrease the degradation of the Amazon.
Reforestation
Alongside preventative measures, reforestation projects are essential. With the loss of vast forest areas vital for absorbing CO₂, generating oxygen and combating climate change, the large-scale planting of new trees is necessary to protect these ecosystems.