Brazil's Election Could Decide the Fate of the Amazon Rainforest
The presidential race may determine whether deforestation surges or declines in the critical ecosystem.
1Election's high stakes
Brazil's October 2024 presidential election features Flávio Bolsonaro, son of former president Jair Bolsonaro, running against incumbent Lula. Experts warn a Bolsonaro victory could reverse recent environmental gains, as deforestation rates halved under Lula after reaching a 15-year high in 2021. The Amazon's 4.2 million square kilometers regulate global climate and store vast carbon stocks.
2Deforestation legacy
Under Jair Bolsonaro's presidency (2019-2023), annual Amazon deforestation surged from 7,536 km² in 2018 to 11,594 km² in 2022. His administration weakened environmental agencies and encouraged land-grabbing through pro-development policies. Current deforestation stands at 5,731 km² (August 2024-July 2025) after Lula restored enforcement capacity.
3Candidate contrasts
Flávio Bolsonaro has called climate change
Original article: New Scientist — Brazil's Election Could Decide the Fate of the Amazon Rainforest