Global destruction of primary tropical rainforest fell by more than a third in 2025, driven largely by Brazil's intensified enforcement efforts. The decline follows a record high in 2024, offering what researchers described as an "encouraging" shift in the fight against deforestation.
The reduction translates to tens of millions of tonnes of avoided CO2 emissions, though precise figures were not provided in the source. Scientists caution that the pace remains well below what is needed to meet a global pledge to halt deforestation entirely by 2030.
Brazil's role was pivotal, with its Amazon monitoring and crackdown on illegal clearing accounting for the bulk of the improvement. The country's new administration has prioritized environmental enforcement after years of rising destruction under the previous government.
International pressure and trade measures, such as the European Union's deforestation regulation, have also played a part. However, critics argue these policies risk punishing smallholder farmers while failing to address underlying drivers like commodity demand.
The decline is significant but fragile. Experts warn that without sustained political will and financial support for forest nations, progress could reverse. The 2030 target, endorsed by over 140 countries, now looks increasingly out of reach without far more aggressive action.