Deforestation in Brazil's Amazon: A 15-Month Streak Ends with a July Spike

Deforestation in Brazil's Amazon increased in July, breaking a 15-month trend of decreasing destruction. Preliminary data revealed that 666 sq km of jungle were cleared, up by 33% from the previous year. The rise coincides with an environmental workers' strike and is the first significant increase since President Lula took office.

Deforestation in Brazil's Amazon surged in July, ending a 15-month decline under President Luiz Inacio da Silva, according to preliminary government data released on Wednesday. The data showed that 666 sq km (257 sq miles) of jungle were cleared in July, 33% more than the 500 sq km recorded in the same month last year.

While this represents a setback, deforestation levels remain far lower under President Lula compared to his predecessor, Jair Bolsonaro. Brazil's Vice Minister for Environment, Joao Capobianco, attributed the increase to a drought in the Amazon, ongoing environmental workers' strike, and the municipal election year.

Despite the July uptick, deforestation has generally been on a downward trend. Data from Inpe, a government space research agency, indicates that last July's deforestation rates were more than double those recorded this month. However, the environmental workers' strike, which began in June, has significantly hampered the enforcement of deforestation laws. This has been reflected in a dramatic decrease in fines issued for environmental violations.

(With inputs from agencies.)