Rodrigo Agostinho, head of Ibama, believes Brazil is on track to reduce deforestation within one to two years significantly.
Brazil’s environmental agency, Ibama, actively implements policies and regulations to protect the country’s diverse ecosystems and natural resources.
His confidence stems from Brazil’s ongoing conservation efforts. These efforts are particularly focused on the Amazon region.
Agostinho shared this outlook with foreign journalists. He mentioned that Brazil could return to the low deforestation rates of 2012 soon.
The goal is to achieve zero deforestation eventually. From August 2022 to July 2023, Brazil saw a 22.3% decrease in Amazonian deforestation.
This reduction is the largest in a decade, covering 2,593 square kilometers. Such progress is a source of pride for Brazil.
Agostinho highlighted this achievement in the context of the upcoming COP28 in Dubai.
Brazil’s significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions places it in a strong position globally. Yet, he acknowledges the current deforestation rates are still high.
He cited recent figures to illustrate progress. Deforestation dropped by 42% from January to July this year.
Predictions suggest a 60% reduction overall for the year. This is a remarkable turnaround from a 54% increase in the latter half of last year.
Brazil’s deforestation is double the 2012 record low
Despite these advances, Brazil’s deforestation is almost double the 2012 record low of 4,571 square kilometers.
Agostinho aspires to surpass this record. He admits the challenge of reaching zero deforestation by 2030, as outlined by the government.
Agostinho also discussed Brazil’s significant role in the carbon credit market. The country is a key recipient and provider in this area.
Last year, Amazonian carbon projects reached a value of $1 billion.
He sees great potential in Brazil for large-scale carbon projects, especially in forest restoration.
Investments in ecological restoration can yield substantial economic and employment benefits.
Agostinho views the carbon market as a vital solution for Brazil. It offers a balance between reducing carbon emissions and generating jobs.