Colombia has reported a 35% increase in deforestation in 2024, particularly in the Amazon region, with total loss reaching 1,070 square kilometers, as stated by Environment Minister Susana Muhamad. While this increase is concerning, it remains the second-lowest deforestation rate in the past 23 years. Colombia is set to host critical UN biodiversity talks, where funding and governance will be key discussion points amid ongoing environmental challenges.
Colombia has reported a 35% increase in deforestation in 2024 compared to the prior year, with total loss reaching 1,070 square kilometers. This rise is predominantly attributed to expanded logging in the Amazon region, as indicated by Environment Minister Susana Muhamad. Since falling to a 23-year low of over 792 square kilometers in 2023, the country is now facing challenges posed by organized crime engaging in large capital deforestation operations rather than actions by rural communities.
The increase in deforestation exemplifies a troubling trend, marking a rise of more than 50% in the Amazon, which accounted for 680 square kilometers of deforestation. Despite these alarming figures, 2024 still represents the second-lowest deforestation rate in over two decades. Minister Muhamad has noted the need for a final deforestation figure, expected to be released later this year, which will include a margin of error of 5% to 10%.
As the host of the upcoming UN nature talks in Rome, Colombia’s biodiversity challenges are critical to the discussion. Delegates will aim to address funding for biodiversity preservation, particularly concerning the current administrative structure of the existing Global Environment Facility, which some developing countries argue limits their access to needed resources. The urgency of these negotiations arises from the notable impact of deforestation on the country’s rich biodiversity.
In light of these issues, Minister Muhamad disclosed that approximately $70 million in environmental funding from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) remains frozen, a result of previous administrative changes. This funding freeze poses additional risks to environmental efforts, particularly in the Amazon region. Furthermore, Minister Muhamad has indicated her resignation from President Gustavo Petro’s government, citing concerns over recently appointed cabinet member Armando Benedetti’s controversial history.
The recent 35% surge in deforestation in Colombia presents significant challenges as the country prepares to host UN biodiversity talks in Rome. This alarming trend, particularly prominent in the Amazon region, underscores the urgency of addressing biodiversity funding and environmental governance. Colombia’s biodiversity rich landscape continues to face substantial threats from organized crime, and the impact of recent funding freezes may exacerbate these issues. The government’s response to these problems will prove critical as negotiations unfold in the coming weeks.
Original Source: www.climatechangenews.com
