Deforestation in Brazil's Amazon drops 31% to lowest level in nine years

Deforestation in Brazil's Amazon rainforest decreased by 30.6% over the past year, marking the lowest level of forest loss in nine years. The area lost was about 6,288 square kilometers, similar to the size of Delaware. This decline contrasts sharply with the previous administration, which saw deforestation reach a 15-year high. Deforestation in Brazil's Cerrado savannah also fell by 25.7%, the first drop in five years. Despite these improvements, environmentalists criticize President Lula's government for supporting projects that may harm the Amazon. Recent drought conditions have led to increased forest fires, which may affect future deforestation rates.