Introduction
The Amazon, one of the most important ecosystems on the planet, has faced significant challenges regarding deforestation. However, according to recent data from the Deforestation Alert System (SAD) of the Amazon Institute of People and the Environment (Imazon), there has been a 31% reduction in deforestation between August 2025 and May 2026.
1,949 km² were deforested, which represents 876 km² less than in the previous period. This downward trend is a positive sign, but it is crucial to ensure the continuation of deforestation control actions to maintain this reduction trend.
Downward Trend in Deforestation
The survey shows that the ‘deforestation calendar’ – which runs from August of one year to July of the next – continues to show a downward trend. With only two months left until its closure, it is essential to maintain deforestation control actions.
“The survey shows that the ‘deforestation calendar’ – which runs from August of one year to July of the next – continues to show a downward trend. With only two months left until its closure, it is essential to ensure the continuation of deforestation control actions to maintain this reduction trend,” says Carlos Souza Jr., a researcher at Imazon.
Persistent Challenges
Despite the reduction, the devastated area still surpasses the territorial extension of the city of São Paulo. The month of May, analyzed in isolation, also shows an increase in destruction: 313 km² of forest were devastated, which represents a 6% increase compared to May 2025.
The affected territory is equivalent to over 1,000 football fields per day, according to Pará Terra Boa. This highlights the importance of maintaining vigilance and environmental protection actions.
Most Affected States
In May, Pará led the devastation among the states of the Brazilian Amazon, accounting for 34% of the reduction in the forest. Mato Grosso (29%) and Amazonas (19%) complete the “top 3” of devastation. The trio was responsible for 82% of all destruction detected in the region.
Conservation Units
Among the Conservation Units (UCs), five of the ten most deforested are in Pará, with a highlight on the Triunfo do Xingu Environmental Protection Area (APA), which leads the list with 13 km² of deforestation in May.
Forest Degradation
Regarding forest degradation, caused by fires and timber extraction, the ten-month period recorded a 93% decrease compared to August 2024 and May 2025, according to Poder 360.
Conclusion
The 31% reduction in deforestation in the Amazon in the last 10 months is a positive sign, but it should not be a reason for complacency. It is essential to continue environmental protection and deforestation control actions to ensure the preservation of the Amazon.
Source / Reference: ClimaInfo