Recent satellite observations reveal a notable decline in global forest loss, particularly in tropical regions, as concerted conservation efforts in Brazil and other nations begin to yield positive results. In 2025, approximately 43,000 square kilometres of old-growth tropical forests were lost globally—an area roughly equivalent to Denmark. This figure represents a significant decrease, around one-third lower than the record losses observed in 2024. Yet, experts caution that the situation remains dire, as these vital ecosystems continue to vanish at an alarming rate compared to a decade ago.
A Positive Trend Amidst Looming Threats
The World Resources Institute, along with the University of Maryland, conducted an analysis indicating that the reduction in forest loss was 36% in 2025 compared to the previous year. This improvement is largely attributed to cooler La Niña conditions, which helped mitigate the unprecedented wildfires that ravaged forests in 2024. Furthermore, enhanced protective measures in countries like Brazil, Colombia, and Malaysia have played a crucial role in this positive shift.
Elizabeth Goldman, co-director of Global Forest Watch at the World Resources Institute, expressed optimism regarding the recent findings. “It’s incredibly encouraging to see the decline in 2025,” she stated. “It highlights how when we have political will and leaders dedicated to forest conservation, tangible results can be achieved.”
In Brazil, the world’s largest rainforest, stronger environmental policies and law enforcement have contributed significantly to this reduction in deforestation. Notably, excluding fire-related losses, Brazil saw an estimated 5,700 square kilometres of old-growth tropical forests disappear last year—the lowest figure recorded since monitoring began in 2002.
The Continuing Battle Against Deforestation
Despite the encouraging news, tropical rainforests remain under severe threat. These ecosystems, which host millions of species and absorb significant amounts of carbon dioxide, are increasingly vulnerable due to decades of intentional land clearing for agriculture and logging. Climate change exacerbates this vulnerability, creating conditions that can lead to larger and more intense fires.
World leaders committed to halting and reversing forest loss by 2030 during the COP26 climate summit in Glasgow in 2021. Yet, progress towards this ambitious goal has been slow. The alarming rates of deforestation in 2024 underscored the urgent need for effective strategies to combat the dual threats posed by climate change and the El Niño weather phenomenon.
Rod Taylor, the global director for forest and nature conservation at the World Resources Institute, emphasised the importance of resilience in forest management. “Forests are well equipped to cope with normal climate,” he noted, “but with the increasing frequency of intense fires and droughts, we must consider how to enhance their resilience against climate-related threats.”
The Worrying Forecast for El Niño
Looking ahead, researchers are apprehensive about the potential increase in forest fires later this year, particularly as the El Niño weather pattern approaches. Although predictions remain uncertain, the combination of climate change and El Niño could significantly heighten the risk of wildfires. Professor Matthew Hansen from the University of Maryland warned, “Climate change and land clearing have shortened the fuse on global forest fires. Without urgent action to manage fire effectively, we risk pushing the world’s most crucial forests beyond recovery.”
A separate report from the EU’s Copernicus climate service outlined how climate change has intensified heatwaves, droughts, and wildfires across Europe last year. With at least 95% of the continent experiencing above-average temperatures, conditions were ripe for widespread wildfires that consumed over 10,000 square kilometres of land—an area larger than Cyprus. Even traditionally cooler regions faced unprecedented heat, with Alpine glaciers continuing their retreat and temperatures in the Arctic Circle soaring to a staggering 30°C in July.
Why it Matters
The battle to protect our forests is far from over. While the recent slowdown in deforestation offers a glimmer of hope, the impending threat posed by climate change and the El Niño phenomenon underscores the urgent need for continued vigilance and action. Tropical forests are not only vital for biodiversity but also play a crucial role in regulating the Earth’s climate. As we confront these challenges, the collective commitment of governments, organisations, and individuals worldwide will be essential in safeguarding these irreplaceable ecosystems for future generations.
