Good news for the Amazon - Colombia cuts deforestation by 36%

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🗞️ Driving the news: Deforestation in Colombia dropped by 36% in 2023, achieving a historic low
• This reduction equates to 44,262 hectares of forest saved
• The decline follows President Gustavo Petro's pledge to combat deforestation and ongoing Indigenous activism

🔭 The context: The reduction occurred as Colombia prepares to host the COP16 United Nations biodiversity summit
• Efforts include limiting agribusiness expansion, creating non-timber forest product reserves, advancing peace talks with guerrilla groups, and providing financial incentives for farmers
• The decrease follows a previous 29% reduction in 2022

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The Amazon rainforest, one-third of which is in Colombia, is a vital carbon sink, absorbing carbon emissions and mitigating global warming
• Preserving this ecosystem is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and combating climate change

⏭️ What's next: Continued efforts are needed to sustain this trend, especially given the current year's deforestation surge due to El Niño's dry weather effects
• The government must address mass cattle ranching, drug crops, and illegal mining and logging to maintain progress

💬 One quote: “It is very good news, but we definitely cannot say that the battle is won. We continue to confront illicit economies," said Colombian Environment Minister Susana Muhamad

📈 One stat: Deforestation in Colombia fell by 36% in 2023, saving 44,262 hectares of forest

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