Brazil's Amazon deforestation surges to 15-year high

Brasília: Deforestation in Brazil’s Amazon rainforest has hit its highest levels in over 15 years, official data shows.

The Amazon is home to approximately three million plant and animal species, as well as one million indigenous people.

According to the most recent data, 13,235 square km (5110 square miles) has been lost during the 2020-21 period—highest since 2006.  

The official deforestation data covers a period from August 2020 through July 2021.

A report by Brazil’s space research agency (INPE) found that deforestation increased by 22% in a year. 

Brazil was among a number of nations who promised to end and reverse deforestation by 2030 during the COP26 climate summit.

As home to the majority of the world's largest rainforest, Brazil, was seen as crucial to that global pact. 

Amazon rainforest's trees absorb vast amounts of carbon dioxide that would otherwise warm the planet. It is an important carbon store that slows the rate of global warming.

Environment Minister Joaquim Leite described the data as a “challenge,” adding that “we need to be more forceful in dealing with these crimes”.

He went on to say that the data “does not accurately reflect the situation in the last few months.”

However, the surging destruction comes despite Bolsonaro's efforts to show his government is serious about protecting the Amazon, considered critical to staving off catastrophic climate change.

Scientists warn that if enough of the forest is destroyed, it could cross a tipping point, dry out and turn into savannah.