How Illegal Deforestation for Beef Trade is Impacting Brazil’s Unique Ecosystem

The recent investigation by Global Witness has shed light on how beef production by major meatpackers in Brazil has been linked to illegal deforestation in the Cerrado savannah. The Cerrado, which is home to 5% of Earth’s species and acts as a buffer against global warming, has not received the same protections as the Amazon, leading to a surge in deforestation rates. This illegal deforestation is driven by the cattle trade, with data suggesting that nearly half of the farms supplying meatpackers have cut down trees. The findings raise concerns about the impact on biodiversity, carbon storage, and the lives of animals like the rare maned wolf. While the upcoming EU law aims to reduce the import of products linked to deforestation, the exclusion of much of the Cerrado under current definitions poses a challenge in addressing the issue effectively. It is crucial for lawmakers and the public to recognize the importance of protecting ecosystems like the Cerrado to combat climate change and preserve biodiversity.