Deforestation in the Amazon rainforest increases

Deforestation in Brazil’s Amazon rainforest is on the increase according to the latest satellite images.

Brazil’s National Institute for Space Research analysed satellite images of the Amazon and discovered that in June, 578 square kilometres (223 square miles) of Amazonian woodland was either burnt or cut down. The figures are four times those seen in May causing concern as the Amazon is seen by many as one of the largest areas that help buffer against the global warming.

Over the past year, the satellite images have shown that more than 4,700 square kilometres of Amazon rainforest has been cut down on burnt.

Much of the rainforest destruction is around the states of Paro and Mato Grosso. These two Brazilian states have many ranchers and farmers in them who regularly encroach on the surrounding trees and rainforest.