Colombia’s deforestation rises slightly as Amazon forest loss holds steady
Summary
Colombia’s government reported a small increase in deforestation nationwide in 2025, with 119,483 hectares lost—about the size of Los Angeles. Despite the rise, forest loss remains 31% lower than in 2021, surpassing the country’s goal of reducing deforestation. Most of the forest loss happened in the Amazon region, which saw little change compared to the previous year.Key Facts
- Colombia lost 119,483 hectares (295,000 acres) of forest in 2025, a 5% increase from 2024.
- The forest loss in 2025 is 31% below the 2021 levels, beating the government’s goal of a 20% reduction.
- Over 65% of the forest loss occurred in the Amazon, with about 77,805 hectares cleared in 2025.
- The Amazon deforestation level in 2025 was almost the same as in 2024.
- Illegal land grabbing, cattle ranching, and expanding infrastructure remain major causes of deforestation.
- President Gustavo Petro prioritized Amazon protection and passed laws to track cattle to prevent illegal deforestation.
- Colombia’s incoming government plans to expand oil and mining, potentially changing environmental policies.
- Ten deforestation hot spots were identified in the northwestern Amazon region.
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