The drivers and impacts of Amazon forest degradation

Background

This research examines the growing threat of forest degradation across the Amazon, a region critical to global carbon balance and biodiversity. Beyond deforestation, widespread disturbances such as fire, edge effects, selective logging, and extreme drought have emerged as major causes of ecological and social disruption. These human-driven stressors, intensified by climate change, now affect approximately 2.5 million km²—around 38% of remaining Amazon forests—posing risks comparable to deforestation itself.

Goals and Methods

The study synthesizes satellite, field, and modeling data to quantify the spatial extent, carbon emissions, and social impacts of degradation. It integrates pan-Amazon datasets from 2001–2018 on burned area, timber extraction, edge exposure, and drought, estimating both overlap and cumulative impacts. The authors also model future scenarios under “governance” and “business-as-usual” conditions to project 2050 emissions and disturbance patterns.

Conclusions and Takeaways

Lapola et al. conclude that degradation causes annual carbon emissions (0.05–0.20 Pg C yr⁻¹) similar to deforestation, reduces dry-season evapotranspiration by up to 34%, and drives biodiversity and livelihood losses. They emphasize integrating degradation control into REDD+ and national policies, strengthening monitoring, and promoting socioenvironmental governance to prevent irreversible ecological tipping points.