Record High Tropical Forest Loss in 2024

A total of 6.7 million hectares of tropical forest were lost last year—nearly double the amount lost in 2023. That equates to 18 football fields of rainforest destroyed every minute.

“These numbers must be a wake-up call for the world. We cannot reach our climate goals without protecting rainforests. The international community must act now,” said Norway’s Minister of Climate and Environment, Andreas Bjelland Eriksen.

Half of the forest loss was due to fire, according to the report from Global Forest Watch and the University of Maryland. Fires are often intentionally set to clear land for agriculture, but frequently spiral out of control.

Brazil saw a record number of forest fires last year, as well as the most severe drought since 1950. The consequences of deforestation are dire: endangered species lose their habitats, ecosystems collapse, and major rivers in the Amazon are shrinking or drying out completely.

“Norway has recently supported Brazil in strengthening fire preparedness across 61 municipalities. This has helped first responders detect and reach fires faster. Still, the numbers from last year show the world must do much more to protect the rainforest,” Eriksen said.

A Destructive Spiral

Greenhouse gas emissions make the climate warmer and drier, increasing fire risk. More fires lead to more emissions and further rainforest loss. This creates a vicious cycle where both climate and nature are increasingly damaged.

“Deforestation worsens the climate crisis, which in turn drives more fires and forest loss. We must cut emissions and break this dangerous cycle now,” said Eriksen.

Tropical rainforests are essential for carbon storage and stabilizing rainfall patterns. Their loss also means the disappearance of biodiversity, clean water, and livelihoods for millions of people.

Signs of Hope in Southeast Asia

There is progress in Southeast Asia. Indonesia has reduced deforestation in the world’s third-largest rainforest through stronger law enforcement and faster fire response. When governments act swiftly and decisively, it becomes harder to destroy forests without consequences.

“Indonesia’s experience shows that rainforest loss can be reduced—but it requires long-term commitment, political will, and close cooperation with Indigenous peoples, local communities, and the private sector,” said Eriksen.

Efforts have been strengthened through better use of technology and monitoring, including early warning systems, satellite data, and digital mapping to detect fires and illegal activities sooner.

5 Years to End Deforestation

At the Glasgow climate summit in 2021, more than 140 countries pledged to halt and reverse deforestation and land degradation by 2030. Several countries have shown that deforestation can be curbed through sound policies, financial incentives, and engagement with local communities. But globally, greater efforts are urgently needed.

“We have no time to lose. To stop deforestation, forest countries must ramp up action—and consumers and businesses must take greater responsibility for their footprints. Norway will continue to be an active partner in this work,” Eriksen concluded.