Colombia Reports 35% Surge in Deforestation Ahead of UN Nature Talks

Colombia reports a 35% increase in deforestation in 2024, primarily in the Amazon, following a record low the previous year. Environment Minister Susana Muhamad attributes this rise to organized crime and large capital investments. The country will host COP16 negotiations amid discussions on biodiversity funding, while recent political changes add to the environmental challenges.

Colombia has reported a significant 35% increase in deforestation in 2024 following a 23-year low in the previous year. Environment Minister Susana Muhamad indicated that this surge is primarily attributed to the rising deforestation rates in the Amazon region, which traditionally experiences the most extensive tree losses. The announcement precedes upcoming UN nature talks in Rome, highlighting the critical environmental state facing the country.

In 2024, deforestation levels reached 1,070 square kilometers (413 square miles), compared to 792 square kilometers in 2023 and approximately 1,235 square kilometers in 2022. Minister Muhamad explained that the increase involved medium-sized deforestation patches financed through substantial capital investments, often linked to organized crime rather than rural communities. She noted that the estimate includes a margin of error ranging from 5% to 10%, with final figures to be published later this year.

Being one of the most biodiverse nations in the world, Colombia continues to lose vast forest areas annually. The country will preside over the resumed COP16 negotiations in Rome from February 25 to 27, following an earlier session that concluded prematurely due to quorum issues. The upcoming discussions aim to address various matters, including the distribution of funds for biodiversity and the administration of the current biodiversity fund under the Global Environment Facility (GEF).

Despite the marked increase in deforestation, the figure for 2024 remains the second lowest in the past 23 years. Specifically, deforestation in the Amazon rose sharply by more than 50% compared to 2023, reaching 680 square kilometers. Earlier, Minister Muhamad noted that approximately $70 million in environmental funding from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) had been suspended in Colombia following political decisions made by former President Donald Trump, further exacerbating the environmental condition affecting the Amazon region.

Additionally, Minister Muhamad recently announced her resignation from the government of President Gustavo Petro due to personal opposition regarding the appointment of Armando Benedetti, who has faced allegations of violence and influence peddling. Benedetti, however, has claimed that false narratives are being propagated regarding him.

In summary, Colombia’s deforestation rates have surged significantly in 2024, primarily due to activities in the Amazon region, marking a concerning trend despite overall improvements in previous years. The upcoming COP16 discussions will address critical issues surrounding biodiversity funding amid an increase in deforestation linked to organized crime. The resignation of Minister Muhamad reflects ongoing political tensions, complicating the country’s environmental challenges.

Original Source: www.climatechangenews.com