Deforestation Surge: Colombia's Amazon Faces New Challenges
Colombia saw a significant rise in deforestation in 2024, with a 43% increase in forest loss compared to the previous year. The surge occurred despite efforts to curb illegal activities and protect forests. The Amazon region experienced the majority of losses, impacted by pasture expansion and climate-related wildfires.
- Country:
- Colombia
In a troubling reversal of previous gains, Colombia's government reported a marked increase in deforestation across the Amazon rainforest, reaching its highest level in years. The loss accounts for over 113,000 hectares, a stark 43% rise from the previous year.
According to the national meteorological agency, the upsurge is largely due to unchecked illegal mining, illicit crop cultivation, and pasture expansion. Infrastructure development also contributes significantly, undermining the effectiveness of earlier government interventions.
Environment Minister Lena Estrada Añokazi highlighted efforts to preserve biodiversity but acknowledged that recent droughts exacerbated by climate change have heightened deforestation risks. The government remains committed to reversing these trends by strengthening local partnerships and increasing law enforcement against environmental crimes.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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