The world’s tropical rainforests are often called the lungs of the Earth because they absorb huge amounts of carbon dioxide and help keep the planet’s climate balanced. These forests are home to millions of species of plants and animals and support communities that depend on forests for food, water, and livelihoods. For years, scientists have warned that rapid deforestation and climate change are putting these vital ecosystems at risk. Now, a new global report has brought a small piece of encouraging news. Although tropical rainforests are still under serious threat, the pace of destruction slowed in 2025 compared to the previous year.
Tropical rainforest loss slows after record destruction
A new report released by the World Resources Institute and the University of Maryland found that tropical primary forest loss dropped by about 36% in 2025 compared to the record destruction seen in 2024.
Even with the improvement, the world still lost around 4.3 million hectares of tropical rainforest, an area roughly the size of Denmark. Scientists said stronger anti-deforestation policies in Brazil helped reduce damage in the Amazon rainforest, which is the world’s largest tropical rainforest.
However, researchers warned that major dangers still remain. Forest fires, mining, farming expansion, illegal logging, and climate change continue to destroy forests in many parts of the world. Elizabeth Goldman, co-director of the Global Forest Watch platform at the World Resources Institute, said the drop in forest loss shows that strong government action can make a real difference. At the same time, she warned that climate change and forest fires are worsening each other.
Scientists also explained why tropical rainforests are so important. These forests absorb carbon dioxide, help regulate Earth’s climate, protect biodiversity, and provide food and water for millions of people. Researchers added that tropical forests are home to more than half of the world’s land plants and animals.
Despite the slowdown, experts say the world is still far from reaching its global goal of ending deforestation by 2030, and much stronger action is needed to protect forests for the future.
What are tropical rainforests?
Tropical rainforests are dense forests found near the Equator, where the weather stays warm and rainy throughout the year. These forests are packed with tall trees, colourful plants, insects, birds, and animals. Famous tropical rainforests include the Amazon rainforest in South America, the Congo rainforest in Africa, and rainforests in Southeast Asia.
Key findings
- Tropical forest loss fell by 36% in 2025
- Around 4.3 million hectares of rainforest were still destroyed
- Forest fires remain one of the biggest threats
- Tropical forests are home to more than half of the world’s land plants and animals
- Scientists say the world is still far from ending deforestation by 2030
- Researchers say stronger global action is urgently needed
SDG connect – This story connects with:
- SDG 15 – Life on land
- SDG 13 – Climate action
- SDG 12 – Responsible consumption and production
- SDG 6 – Clean water and sanitation
Protecting forests helps protect wildlife, clean air, water sources, and the future of our planet.
Read about – 17 Sustainable Development Goals Explained: How The World Plans A Better Future By 2030
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