Story perspectives

Brazil Senate Ends Federal Oversight, Threatens Forest Gains

5/14/2026

Summary

Story summary

Brazil approved a law ending federal oversight of deforestation, endangering Atlantic Forest protection gains.
Deforestation in the Atlantic Forest dropped to 8,658 hectares in 2025, the lowest in 40 years.
The 2025 ‘devastation bill’ removes federal pre-approval, overturns President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s vetoes and faces a Supreme Court challenge.
Scientists warn a Senate win for Senator Flávio Bolsonaro could reverse the decline, reflecting his father’s anti-science, anti-environment stance.

1 of 1

Story summary

Brazil approved a law ending federal oversight of deforestation, endangering Atlantic Forest protection gains.
Deforestation in the Atlantic Forest dropped to 8,658 hectares in 2025, the lowest in 40 years.
The 2025 ‘devastation bill’ removes federal pre-approval, overturns President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s vetoes and faces a Supreme Court challenge.
Scientists warn a Senate win for Senator Flávio Bolsonaro could reverse the decline, reflecting his father’s anti-science, anti-environment stance.