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Rainforests Facing Existential Threats as Deforestation Continues Unabated
17 Nov
Summary
- Satellite data shows only 5% of global land has trees over 30m tall
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands face major deforestation for development projects
- Brazil launches $3 trillion Tropical Forest Forever Facility to incentivize conservation
As the UN Climate Conference (COP30) takes place in the Amazon, the urgent need to stop deforestation has emerged as a central focus. Satellite data paints a concerning picture, showing that only 5% of the global landmass is covered by trees taller than 30 meters, and just 34% of these tall canopies are located within protected areas.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands in India are home to some of the world's densest and tallest rainforests, with canopy heights reaching up to 60-80 meters. However, these critical ecosystems face existential threats. The Indian government has planned major development projects in the region, including an international container terminal, airport, and power plant, which will require clearing 130.75 square kilometers of forest.
In response, Brazil has launched the Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF), a $3 trillion initiative to incentivize tropical forest conservation. While endorsed by over 90% of developing countries with rainforests, experts are unsure if the TFFF can effectively reverse deforestation, as it relies on volatile private investment.
Nonetheless, Brazilian President Lula da Silva sees the TFFF as a crucial step, stating that the eyes of the world are now on the Amazon, the "highest symbol of the environmental cause." As the world grapples with the urgent need to protect these irreplaceable ecosystems, the fate of the planet's remaining rainforests hangs in the balance.
