Moist tropical forest spanning the Amazon basin in South America
New data shows the Atlantic forest and Amazon have recorded lower deforestation in 2025, but forest degradation and legislative risks threaten potential gains amid El Niño and political pressure on enforcement.
Brazil has announced an environmental protection plan to accompany the paving of the BR-319 highway linking Amazonas and Rondônia. The plan includes monitoring, checkpoints, new conservation units, and private enforcement support, as Lula eyes reelection. Environmental groups have challenged the project in court amid concerns about indigenous consultation and climate safeguards.
The World Meteorological Organization has projected that the Arctic will warm much faster than the rest of the globe, and that multiple scenarios through 2030 will exceed the Paris 1.5°C threshold. The report indicates increased risks of extreme weather, droughts, and wildfires, with El Niño likely to push temperatures higher in coming years.
A US-registered Gulfstream G200 Galaxy has crashed near La Romana after declaring an emergency during a return to the Dominican Republic airport. The two crew members have died; MLB star Yadier Molina had been travelling with a group en route to Texas. Investigations are underway with authorities reviewing mechanical failures and weather factors.
The National Park Service is removing mountain goats from the Tetons after a three-year effort to protect native bighorn sheep. Park officials say nonnative goats pose disease risks and compete for habitat, prompting ongoing removal by specialized contractors as rangers engage the public in reporting sightings.
Gracie the giraffe has been missing for nearly two weeks after escaping Cedar Hollow Ranch. Real County authorities say she remains at large as search efforts continue across rugged hill country. Helicopters have been deployed and a $5,000 reward is offered as residents are urged to remain vigilant.
Deforestation in Brazil’s Amazon has fallen by 38% in the first half of 2026, the lowest since 2016, as Lula’s government pushes an anti-deforestation plan and strict penalties. Bolsonaro remains under house arrest for a 2022 coup attempt, with ongoing legal actions and political tension shaping Brazil’s climate and economy.
Brazil's deforestation rate has fallen by half in Lula's first year back in office, with 1,295 sq km cleared from January to June, the lowest since 2016. Lula defers to his government on zero-deforestation targets while facing criticisms over oil exploration near the Amazon mouth and shifting U.S. tariffs amid a tight election race.