Forests are often called the lungs of our planet. They clean the air, store carbon, protect wildlife, and help control the climate. However, new research shows that the world took a huge step backwards in 2024. Record forest loss was reported globally, sending a strong warning that Earth’s natural defences are under serious threat. Scientists say this level of destruction is not just worrying, it is a climate emergency.
Forests Disappearing Faster Than Ever, New Report Warns:
In 2024, the world lost about 67,000 square kilometres of tropical primary rainforest. That is equal to losing 18 football pitches every single minute. This shocking data comes from a new report by researchers from the University of Maryland and the World Resources Institute. Even more alarming, forest loss in 2024 was almost double the amount recorded in 2023.
Fires became the biggest cause
For the first time ever, forest fires were the leading cause of forest loss, responsible for nearly half of all destruction. These fires release huge amounts of pollution into the air, which worsens global warming and makes future fires even more likely.
Alongside fires, land clearing for farming and human activities continued to destroy forests at a rapid pace.
Farming pressure is growing
The second biggest cause of forest loss was clearing land for agriculture, including growing crops and raising animals. In fact, land cleared for farming rose by 14% in 2024, the largest increase seen in the last 10 years. This puts even more pressure on ecosystems that are already struggling to survive.
Which country lost the most forests?
Brazil, home to the world’s largest tropical rainforest, lost 2.8 million hectares of forest in 2024, more than any other country. This is especially serious because the Amazon rainforest plays a key role in controlling the global climate.
Forests absorb carbon dioxide, cool the planet, and protect millions of species. Losing them at this speed makes climate change harder to stop and puts people, animals, and food systems at risk. Scientists warn that without urgent action, forest loss could push the planet towards dangerous climate tipping points.
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