Deforestation trends in Brazil, decline in the Amazon, increase in the Cerrado

Deforestation has shown contrasting trends in the Amazon and Cerrado regions in Brazil during the first half of 2023.

While deforestation decreased in the Amazon, the Cerrado observed an increase. The reasons behind these trends can be attributed to various factors.

In the Amazon, the resumption of fines for environmental offenders and the prohibition of deforested areas have significantly reduced deforestation.

The collection of fines imposed by Ibama (Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources) saw a 167% increase compared to the previous year.

Additionally, destructive operations targeting equipment used in environmental crimes increased by 138%.

Remote embargoes, which prohibit the use of areas involved in environmental crimes, also saw a 166% increase in violations.

Furthermore, increased inspections resulted in confiscating of various resources associated with deforestation.

In contrast, the Cerrado faces challenges in monitoring permits for deforestation.

The government estimates that regional environmental authorities have authorized over half of the deforestation in this region.

The lack of recognition of areas inhabited by traditional communities is another issue, with only 8% of the biome legally protected by designated areas.

Additionally, the absence of a comprehensive action plan to prevent and control deforestation in the Cerrado contributes to the challenges.

Experts and government officials recognize the positive achievement of reversing the upward trend of deforestation in the Amazon.

However, they emphasize the need for continued efforts and caution that the fight against deforestation occurs on the ground and within the political landscape.

Regarding the Cerrado, its significance beyond agricultural production must be acknowledged, and traditional territories occupied by communities should be recognized for conservation purposes.

The Cerrado’s historical data collection is relatively new, and its diverse physiognomies present technological challenges in identifying specific areas.

The Cerrado’s record-breaking deforestation figures indicate the consequences of increasing pressure on the region due to austerity in the Amazon.

Recognizing the importance of traditional communities and their territories is seen as a strategic step to address deforestation in the Cerrado.

Transparency and compliance with the law in granting permits for vegetation suppression are key concerns.

The lack of accessibility and transparency in the data related to deforestation permits in the Cerrado raises questions about compliance with regulations.