An analysis from the Center of Life Institute indicates that 91% of deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon last year was illegal. The report highlights challenges in combating illegal land clearing and emphasizes the need for improved regulation and enforcement. Most deforestation recorded lacked authorization, revealing systemic issues within the permit system.
A recent analysis by the Center of Life Institute (ICV) revealed that 91% of deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon between August 2023 and July 2024 was unauthorized. In the Cerrado region, known for its biodiversity, 51% of forest clearing was similarly unapproved. Despite Brazilian laws permitting legal deforestation for agricultural purposes, the vast majority of land clearing remains unregistered, indicating rampant illegal activity.
According to Vinicius Salgueiro from ICV’s Territorial Intelligence Unit, the findings underscore the significant challenges in addressing illegal deforestation within Brazil’s critical ecosystems. He emphasized the need for robust law enforcement alongside financial disincentives to dismantle the prevailing notion that illegal clearing is profitable.
To assess the status of deforestation, researchers compared satellite alerts with national and state permit records. The research concluded that only 9% of Amazon deforestation and 49% in the Cerrado was authorized, noting that the fragmented nature of permit data across states complicates monitoring efforts.
Marcondes Coelho, ICV’s transparency and climate justice coordinator, noted that ineffective permit systems contribute to the prevalence of illegal deforestation by allowing opportunities for corruption. Suely Araújo from Brazil’s Climate Observatory lamented the longstanding issues of illegality and government absence in the Amazon, indicating an increase in organized crime impacting the region.
In the Cerrado, even legal deforestation raises concerns, as regulatory agencies often issue permits without sufficient scrutiny. Araújo urged for stricter approval processes and a focus on utilizing already cleared lands instead of further deforestation.
The alarming rates of illegal deforestation in Brazil’s Amazon and Cerrado highlight significant enforcement challenges and systemic regulatory issues. The findings call for enhanced transparency and stricter oversight to combat illegal land clearing effectively. Collaborative efforts between government authorities and environmental organizations are essential for fostering sustainable land management practices and protecting vital ecosystems.
Original Source: news.mongabay.com
