Amazon Deforestation Reverses After 15-Month Decline

Deforestation in Brazil's Amazon rainforest rose in July, breaking a 15-month trend of declining destruction.

According to official data released on Wednesday, deforestation in the Amazon increased for the first time in 15 months.

Deforestation in Brazil's Amazon rainforest increased in July for the first time in 15 months, according to official data released on Wednesday. The Amazon, which covers nearly 40% of South America, is home to a vast array of plant and animal life and plays a vital role in regulating the global climate. Deforestation in the Amazon is usually linked to agricultural expansion and illegal logging.

In the first seven months of the year, Amazon deforestation totaled 2,310 square kilometers (892 square miles), a decline of 27% compared to the same period last year. However, deforestation in July increased by 29% compared to July 2021, to 1,345 square kilometers (519 square miles).

The increase in deforestation in July comes as Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has vowed to crack down on environmental crimes. Lula, who took office in January, has pledged to reduce deforestation in the Amazon to zero by 2030.