Rebecca Manzi Colombia recorded its lowest deforestation rate in 23 years, with a 36% decrease thanks to innovative and sustainable strategies to protect forests
@Ministry of the environment
Colombia has made remarkable progress in environmental conservation, achieving the lowest deforestation rate in 23 years in 2023. According to the annual report by the Ministry of Environment, last year saw 195,785 acres of forest cleared, a 36% decrease from the 305,167 acres in 2022.
These figures represent the lowest deforestation rate since systematic tracking began in 2000. The achievement has been warmly received by the government of President Gustavo Petro, known for his strong environmental stance.
President Petro is set to host COP16, the United Nations biodiversity summit, in Cali starting in October. The reduction in deforestation is a significant milestone for the administration, which has implemented innovative and sustainable strategies to protect forests.
Incentives for local communities to protect forests
Susana Muhamad, Minister of Environment and Sustainable Development, emphasized the importance of these results during a press conference in Bogotá. She highlighted the direct correlation between peace and reduced deforestation, explaining that peaceful conditions promote forest conservation.
Colombia has strengthened conservation agreements, particularly in the Amazon region, critical for biodiversity and climate regulation. The Ministry’s deforestation containment plan includes programs like “Conservar Paga,” which triples incentives for local communities dedicated to forest protection.
This collaborative approach marks a departure from the militarized policies of former President Ivan Duque’s administration. Despite the success of 2023, the future of deforestation efforts in Colombia remains uncertain. Minister Muhamad warned that stalled dialogues with FARC dissidents could lead to increased deforestation in 2024. The fragmentation of the self-proclaimed Central Party and the complex political situation could jeopardize the progress made so far.
Source: Ministry of the Environment
