Environmentalists warn that 2020 will be the most destructive year for the Amazon rainforest, the world’s largest rainforest, and the area of ​​rainforest loss may exceed those created by a devastating fire last year. 

According to the data of National Institute for Space Research (INPE), the total area of ​​Amazon rainforest deforestation in Brazil in May was 829 square kilometres, which is 14 times larger than the Manhattan area of ​​New York. It is an increase of 12% from last year and the worst since the record began in August 2015.

  
Photo Source: Sinchew Daily

So far this year, the Brazilian Amazon rainforest decreased by more than 2,000 square kilometres, 34% higher than the same period last year. 

Besides, Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro who called for the development of rainforests to legalize mining and farming in protected areas is accused for encouraging the overuse of rainforests. 

In addition to deforestation, Brazil has also become a severely affected area for COVID-19. Experts say the pandemic has reduced the manpower for environmental authorities to inspect forests.

Source: Sinchew Daily

Cover Photo: Sinchew Daily | Feng.Media