Deforestation in Brazil’s Amazon Plunges 68%, First Big Drop Under Lula

Brasília, Brazil: In a promising development, Brazil’s space agency data show Amazon deforestation dropped by 68% in April compared to the same month last year—the first major decline since President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva returned to office. The figures suggest tighter enforcement and renewed environmental policies could be working, reversing prior years of rampant clear-cutting. Lula has pledged “zero deforestation” by 2030, aiming to protect biodiversity and curb carbon emissions. Though still early in the year, environmental groups say this trend is a vital sign of progress. Critics note that the true test will come in peak deforestation season, typically mid-year, when illegal logging can surge.