Deforestation in Brazil’s Amazon rainforest has dropped to its lowest level in a decade during the first half of 2026, according to official government figures. The data marks a significant milestone in President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva’s efforts to protect the world's largest rainforest.
Between January and June, an estimated 1,295 square kilometers (500 square miles) of forest were cleared. This represents a 38 percent drop compared to the same period last year, as reported by Brazil’s National Institute for Space Research (INPE). It is also the lowest overall decrease in deforestation since 2016.
Under Lula’s far-right predecessor, Jair Bolsonaro, Amazon deforestation reached a peak around 2022, clearing an area 13 times the size of New York City. Bolsonaro promoted mining and development in the Amazon, leading to criticism over environmental destruction and the erosion of Indigenous rights. In contrast, Lula won the 2022 presidential election partly by promising to protect Brazil’s environment and end illegal deforestation by 2030. During his first year back in office, Brazil’s deforestation rate was cut in half and has continued to fall, thanks to the relaunch of an anti-deforestation action plan and increased penalties for environmental crimes.
However, Lula has still faced environmental criticism, particularly for authorizing oil exploration near the mouth of the Amazon River. He has also navigated political tensions with the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump, who supports Bolsonaro. In June, the U.S. proposed new tariffs on Brazilian goods, citing illegal deforestation as one of the reasons. Lula defended his administration's efforts, stating that the decision to eliminate deforestation by 2030 was a national commitment, independent of external pressure.
The Amazon rainforest plays a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide and regulating the global climate. As Brazil prepares for its presidential election in October, environmental policies remain a key issue. The 80-year-old Lula, campaigning for a fourth non-consecutive term, is likely to face Senator Flavio Bolsonaro, the eldest son of the former president, as his main challenger.