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🗞️ Driving the news: Wildfires in Brazil’s Amazon rainforest surged by 846% in 2024 compared to the previous year, burning an area the size of Switzerland
• The fires were fueled by a historic drought and El Niño, with experts suggesting that criminals may be exploiting these conditions to clear land for pasture
• The forest loss coincides with preparations for COP30, set to be hosted in the Amazonian city of Belem next year

🔭 The context: Deforestation typically starts with felling trees, but drought conditions are allowing landgrabbers to bypass this step and use fire directly to clear land
• The Jamanxim National Forest, a hotspot for illegal cattle ranching, saw a 700% increase in burned area
• Despite the fire surge, Brazil's deforestation rate has declined under President Lula, aiming for a 60% reduction compared to Bolsonaro's administration

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The wildfires exacerbate climate change by releasing stored carbon from the forest, contributing to a global increase in emissions from forest fires
• The Amazon’s degradation threatens its role as a critical carbon sink and endangers biodiversity, including aquatic species affected by extreme drought
• The fires also highlight the need for stronger policies to address both deforestation and climate resilience

⏭️ What's next: Brazil's government is considering mandating reforestation of burned areas to deter illegal land conversion
• Structural policy changes at local and state levels are needed, as most fires start on private rural lands
• With more dry months ahead, continued monitoring and enforcement are crucial to prevent further damage

💬 One quote: “The data is exceptionally alarming, it’s a very abrupt surge” – Ane Alencar, science director at the Amazon Environmental Research Institute

📈 One stat:
In 2024, the area burned in Jamanxim National Forest increased by 700% compared to 2023, totaling 1,900 square kilometers

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