Colombia's forest loss ticks up in 2025 while Amazon clearing stays flat

Colombia's government announced that forest loss rose slightly in 2025, reaching 119,483 hectares—about the size of Los Angeles—and marking a 5% uptick from 2024. Despite the increase, the figure remains 31% below the 2021 baseline, surpassing the target of a 20% reduction. The Amazon region still bore the brunt of clearing, with 77,805 hectares removed, essentially unchanged from the previous year and representing over 65% of total loss.

Authorities highlighted progress from community conservation incentives, a pioneering cattle-traceability law, and a major crackdown that led to 17 arrests in Mapiripan. Nonetheless, illegal land grabbing, extensive cattle ranching, and unplanned road building continue to drive deforestation. The statistics provide a benchmark for incoming President-elect Abelardo de la Espriella, who plans to broaden oil and mining activities while reviewing Petro's environmental measures. Outgoing President Gustavo Petro, leaving office next week, had made Amazon protection a flagship of his agenda.