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Global deforestation reached record highs in 2024, with over 6.7 million hectares of tropical forests lost, primarily due to wildfires and agricultural expansion. This surpasses previous losses and contradicts 2021 pledges by over 140 countries to end deforestation by 2030. The increase is linked to rising temperatures and climate change, highlighting the urgent need for global action. While some positive developments exist, such as reduced deforestation in Indonesia and successful community-led fire prevention in Bolivia, the overall trend is alarming and threatens economies, livelihoods, and climate change mitigation efforts.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.