'Football Field' of Amazon Forest Cleared Every Minute The Amazon rainforest has the richest
biodiversity on the planet, providing shelter to
one-tenth of all species of plants and animals. It is also an important carbon store,
which helps slow down global warming. According to satellite data, a
football field-sized area of
the Amazon rainforest is
cut down every minute. The accelerated deforestation is due to
Brazilian president Jair Bolsonaro's prioritization
of development over conservation. The land is being cleared to
create new pastures for cattle. Bolsonaro has banned his environment
staff from talking to the press, as their
research directly contradicts his policies. Environment Official,
via BBC
