Brazil's Battle with Amazon Degradation: Beyond Deforestation

Brazil's President Lula da Silva, who took office in 2023, aims to end Amazon deforestation by 2030. While enforcement has significantly reduced deforestation rates, a new study reveals that logging, forest burning, and natural disturbances contribute more to carbon emissions. Experts argue that addressing degradation is equally crucial for climate goals.

Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva began his term in 2023 with a pledge to combat Amazon deforestation and reclaim his country's leadership in climate action. Enhanced enforcement measures have led to a more than 50% reduction in deforestation rates, aligning with Lula's goal to end deforestation by 2030.

However, a recent study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences indicates that deforestation is just a part of the problem. Using advanced airborne laser scanning, researchers found that human-induced degradation and natural disturbances release far more carbon dioxide than clear-cut deforestation, accounting for 83% of emissions.

The research highlights that despite forests' natural ability to absorb carbon dioxide, the Amazon is currently emitting more carbon than it absorbs due to ongoing degradation. The study's lead author, Ovidiu Csillik of Wake Forest University, stated the findings offer unprecedented insights into forest degradation. Scientists argue that focusing solely on deforestation overlooks other critical climate impacts.

(With inputs from agencies.)