Climate

Amazon deforestation falls 42% to a record low

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Based on a feed excerpt; full article content has not been acquired. Source evidence retrieved 16/10/2026, 22:39:24 UTC.

Briefings

Brazil's INPE reported that Amazon deforestation fell to 3,335 sq km in 2026, marking the lowest level on record and a 42% drop from the previous year. This achievement occurred despite political uncertainty surrounding President Lula's re-election and ongoing El Niño drought conditions. The data covers the 12 months ending July 31, 2026, and compares against the 1988-2026 historical baseline.

Key points

• Deforestation in the Brazilian Amazon dropped to 3,335 square kilometers in 2026, the lowest level on record.
• This represents a 42% decrease from the previous year's figure, with the area smaller than the Spanish island of Mallorca.

Context

The finding is significant as it coincides with President Lula's re-election campaign, which has seen him restore environmental law enforcement and expand conservation programs. However, the near-term outlook remains challenged by a super El Niño event brewing in the Pacific, which is associated with drought in the southern Amazon and increased fire risk.

Limitations

Data covers only the 12 months ending July 31, 2026, and relies on INPE PRODES data spanning 1988-2026. Forecasts for future trends are not provided, and the specific impact of the El Niño drought on the current reduction remains unquantified.

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