Under Lula, Amazon deforestation falls to lowest level in a decade

Deforestation in Brazil’s Amazon rainforest has fallen to its lowest point in a decade, with official figures showing a 38 percent drop in forest clearing during the first half of 2026 compared to the same period last year. This milestone reflects President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva's commitment to ending illegal deforestation by 2030.

From January to June, an estimated 1,295 square kilometers of forest were cleared, marking the lowest decrease since 2016. This figure stands in stark contrast to the peak deforestation rates seen around 2022 under former President Jair Bolsonaro, whose administration was criticized for environmental destruction and erosion of Indigenous rights. Lula defeated Bolsonaro in the 2022 presidential race, partly on a platform of environmental protection.

Despite the positive trend, Lula's government has faced criticism for authorizing expanded oil exploration near the Amazon River. The administration also navigated tensions with the U.S. under President Donald Trump, who had proposed tariffs on Brazil, citing illegal deforestation among other reasons. Lula's government has used the latest deforestation data to challenge these claims, with the president stating the reduction is a firm decision of his government.

Researchers acknowledge Brazil's significant role in the global decline of rainforest loss last year. The government's efforts are underscored by the latest figures, which Lula presented as evidence of his administration's dedication to environmental protection, emphasizing it as a domestic imperative.

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They don’t understand the work we are doing to bring deforestation down to zero by 2030. This is not a decision by any COP or by the United Nations. It is a decision of our government.