Global Deforestation

This section is intended to collect data on the current status of global deforestation. This is accomplished through the utilization of APIs, databases, news sources, MapBuilders, and academic journals.


Global forest loss map

Credits: University of Maryland, department of geographical sciences.

Results from time-series analysis of Landsat images characterizing forest extent and change.

Trees are defined as vegetation taller than 5m in height and are expressed as a percentage per output grid cell as ‘2000 Percent Tree Cover’. ‘Forest Cover Loss’ is defined as a stand-replacement disturbance, or a change from a forest to non-forest state, during the period 2000–2019. ‘Forest Cover Gain’ is defined as the inverse of loss, or a non-forest to forest change entirely within the period 2000–2012. ‘Forest Loss Year’ is a disaggregation of total ‘Forest Loss’ to annual time scales.

Reference 2000 and 2019 imagery are median observations from a set of quality assessment-passed growing season observations.


News List

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Secure land rights linked to lower deforestation in Brazil's Amazon, study shows

Who owns the rainforest—and who has the right to use it—might seem like a simple question. But in the Brazilian Amazon, that question lies at the heart of one of the world's most persistent environmental challenges. New research from Virginia Tech na... [3943 chars]

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At UN climate conference, some activists and scientists want more talk on reforming agriculture

With a spotlight on the Brazilian Amazon, where agriculture drives a significant chunk of deforestation and planet-warming emissions, many of the activists, scientists and government leaders at United Nations climate talks have a beef. They want more... [4449 chars]

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European Parliament's centrist majority splits over delayed deforestation rules

The centrist majority in the European Parliament is once again divided over an environmental issue. The Parliament is set to vote next Wednesday on the revision of the EU regulation on deforestation-free products, which prohibits the importation of c... [3328 chars]

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At UN Climate Conference, Some Activists and Scientists Want More Talk on Reforming Agriculture

BELEM, Brazil (AP) — With a spotlight on the Brazilian Amazon, where agriculture drives a significant chunk of deforestation and planet-warming emissions, many of the activists, scientists and government leaders at United Nations climate talks have a... [4888 chars]

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EPP drives Parliament to stop-the-clock on deforestation rules

The European Parliament is likely to fall in line with EU governments and delay the bloc’s deforestation rules (EUDR), backing a full one-year postponement and the option to reopen the law by 2026. Talks between the centre-right European People’s Par... [3162 chars]

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In COP30’s Host State, a Brazilian Seed Bank Aims to Restore the Amazon

Half a century ago, the Brazilian government flooded the Tocantins River, forming a reservoir for the Tucuruí hydroelectric dam. The facility is in the state of Pará, which is hosting the United Nations’ annual climate summit. The dam and reservoir c... [3009 chars]

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Backed by Industry, Brazilian Hosts Seek COP30’s Blessing for Biofuels

With the clock running down at the COP30 climate talks, the Brazilian hosts are working hand-in-hand with industry groups to secure backing for biofuels in the final text – despite fears that scaling production will drive deforestation and violate In... [7395 chars]

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Sustainable development: Retrospective clearances threaten rule of law

The Supreme Court’s recall of its May 2025 ruling this week could reopen the door for retrospective environmental clearances (ECs) and marks a significant milestone in India’s environmental regulation. In earlier cases, such as Common Cause vs Union ... [361 chars]

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Cricket match inside Nagarhole: Minister seeks report

Minister for Forest, Ecology, and Environment Eshwar B. Khandre sought a report on a cricket match which was held inside the core area of Nagarhole Tiger Reserve and came to light on Thursday, November 20. The match was played near Nanchi safari poin... [803 chars]

News API sources: NewsCatcher & GNews