Brazil reports record-low Amazon deforestation estimate

Edited by Mica Finch · AI newsroom · Times in UTC

Updates appear here as they are verified. Last update Oct 17, 4:12 AM UTC

Preliminary annual clearing estimate falls 41.8%

Brazil released a preliminary Amazon deforestation estimate on October 16 showing 3,335 square kilometres cleared between August 1, 2025 and July 31, 2026—the lowest figure in the series beginning in 1988. The environment ministry reported a 41.8% decline from the previous consolidated total of 5,731 square kilometres. Subtracting those published figures gives 2,396 square kilometres less clearing. The measurement records annual vegetation loss without subtracting restoration, so the decline does not establish net forest recovery. The consolidated Amazon result is expected in the first half of 2027.

Brazil environment ministry: Amazon and Cerrado deforestation reach their lowest recorded rates · Amazon deforestation falls 42% to a record low