Global Deforestation Surges, Missing 2023 Targets

A report reveals that forest loss last year exceeded the target for halting deforestation by 2030, with tropical regions bearing the brunt.

In 2023, 6.37 million hectares of forest were destroyed, surpassing the target of 4.4 million hectares needed to stay on track for 2030 deforestation goals.
Tropical countries like Brazil, Indonesia, and Bolivia accounted for nearly 96% of global deforestation last year.
Bolivia experienced a 351% increase in deforestation from 2015 to 2023, largely due to agricultural expansion for soy and beef.
Brazil showed improvement in the Amazon under President Lula, reducing deforestation by 62%, but saw increased forest loss in the Cerrado region.
The European Commission has delayed its anti-deforestation law to 2025, drawing criticism from environmental groups for postponing crucial protections.