Amazon deforestation in Brazil drops to record low since 1988

Deforestation in Brazil's Amazon rainforest has dropped to its lowest level on record, according to data from the Brazilian space research agency Inpe reported by rte.ie and DW. Official figures show that 3,335 square kilometres of jungle were cleared in the 12 months leading up to July. BBC News and rte.ie both noted that this represents an all-time low for the historical monitoring series, which began in 1988. [1][4][7]

The previous record low for Amazon deforestation in Brazil occurred during 2011 and 2012, when 4,500 square kilometres were lost, rte.ie reported. The latest reduction was praised as a major landmark by environmental observers, according to reports from DW and UNN. [2][4][7]

Left-wing President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva promised to end Amazon deforestation by 2030 after taking office three years ago, BBC News reported. Destruction in the rainforest had previously expanded under his right-wing predecessor, Jair Bolsonaro. As FTMQ News reported earlier, Lula is currently campaigning in a close presidential election against Jair Bolsonaro's son, Senator Flavio Bolsonaro. [1][16][17]

The upcoming presidential run-off election will take place on October 25, according to BBC News. Polls suggest a close race, with Flavio Bolsonaro pledging to continue his father's policies while promising to fight organised crime. [1]