Colombia's Deforestation Increases by 5% in 2025 Amidst Environmental Policy Shifts
Colombia's deforestation increased by 5% in 2025, with the country losing 119,483 hectares of forest. Despite this rise, deforestation levels remain 31% below those of 2021, surpassing the government's target to reduce forest loss. The Environment Ministry and IDEAM reported that the Amazon continues to face significant pressure from illegal land grabbing, cattle ranching, and infrastructure expansion. The outgoing administration of President Gustavo Petro had made Amazon protection a priority, implementing policies like a cattle traceability law to combat illegal deforestation. However, the incoming government of President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella plans to expand oil and mining development, potentially altering current environmental policies. 
