11 deforestation facts to know in 2026 (plus solutions)

Deforestation, the intentional and permanent clearing of forested land for other uses, is not just an environmental issue. Forests are important for numerous social, economic, and ethical considerations, and responsible management is key to their long-term health.

That is why it is vital to separate harmful practices like deforestation and severe degradation from sustainable forest management practices that prioritize the long-term health of the ecosystem. The check-tree on forest based products (paper, wooden furniture etc) helps consumers to identify products from sustainable forest practices. Certified forests balance the economic benefit of intentional tree cutting with the conservation of forest ecosystems and the well-being of local communities and forest workers

The scale of global deforestation is shocking, but in the fight for climate justice, it’s important to grasp its full impact. With knowledge of these deforestation facts, we can better address forest loss for current and future generations.

Table of contents: 

• The tropics lost 6.7 million ha of primary rainforest in 2024
• Global forest loss continues to outpace 2030 reduction goals
• Tropical Asia is the only tropical region on track to halt deforestation by 2030
• Unsustainable food systems are a leading cause of deforestation
• Global banks finance $119 billion to deforestation
• Indigenous Peoples and local communities manage 54 per cent of the world’s intact forests
• Healthy forests directly support 2.5 billion people globally
• Europe saw 2.25 million ha of tall forests fall over 20 years
• Deforestation produced 3.1 Gt of CO2 emissions in 2024
• Thirty-four per cent of tree loss worldwide from 2001–2024 is likely permanent
• Certification solutions expanded community and family forests by nearly 250,000 ha in 2024
• Why healthy forests are crucial in the long term
• What can we do about deforestation?
• Help reverse deforestation’s impact with FSC

1. The tropics lost 6.7 million ha of primary rainforest in 2024

The shrinking of tropical rainforests continues to define the global climate and biodiversity crisis.

In 2024, the tropics lost a record-shattering 6.7 million hectares of primary rainforest, an area of pristine forest nearly the size of Panama. As these forests are the world's most powerful natural carbon sinks, loss of this scale directly undermines efforts to stabilize the global climate.

The crisis particularly affects South America. Since 2002, Brazil alone has lost a staggering 33.5 million hectares of humid primary forest. This significant area accounts for forty-seven per cent of Brazil's total tree cover loss over the same period, hugely impacting the Amazonian region.

Why it matters: Such extensive destruction of these ancient, carbon-dense ecosystems results in biodiversity decline and rising carbon emissions. The impact of deforestation also extends to communities that rely on forest resources.

2. Global forest loss continues to outpace 2030 reduction goals

The global deforestation rate in 2024 was 2 per cent lower than the 2018-2020 baseline. However, this modest reduction still leaves the current rate 63 per cent higher than the rate required to achieve zero-deforestation–the commitment to stop clearing forests– by 2030.

Despite high-profile international pledges, frameworks, and agreements to end deforestation like the New York Declaration on Forests (NYDF), the global rate of forest loss remains dangerously high. The agreements center on critical targets for climate action and biodiversity protection.

Why it matters: Missed targets highlight that global summit promises from governments and corporations haven't led to the necessary on-the-ground progress and policy enforcement to protect the world's forests.

3. Tropical Asia is the only tropical region on track to halt deforestation by 2030

The fight against deforestation is overwhelmingly concentrated in the tropics, where ninety-six per cent of global deforestation occurs. Policy and governance are especially essential for success in these locations.

Tropical Asia is a region highlighted for making progress toward halting deforestation by 2030, supported by improved governance and coordinated conservation efforts. However, this progress is complex.  

In some areas, recent slowdowns in deforestation follow decades of substantial forest loss, meaning there is less intact primary forest remaining to be cleared. As a result, reduced deforestation rates do not always reflect success alone, but also the consequences of past depletion.

Even so, the region offers important lessons. Where political will has begun to outweigh short-term economic pressures, stronger protections and enforcement show how deforestation can be slowed and, in some cases, stabilized. They also highlight the urgency of protecting remaining forests before further losses occur.

Why it matters: While we still have a long way to go, it’s important to recognize these wins and understand what’s possible to accelerate worldwide action. 

4. Unsustainable food systems are a leading cause of deforestation

Agriculture is easily the biggest driver of global deforestation. It transforms vast forest landscapes to support the production of commodities like soy, palm oil, and beef. An astonishing 80 per cent of global deforestation is linked to altering natural landscapes for crops and livestock.

The conversion of forests into cropland is the single most destructive activity, responsible for driving over half of global forest loss worldwide. Industrial expansion and illegal land clearing are key reasons, each requiring a different approach.

Reliance on these unsustainable agricultural practices links our global food systems directly to biodiversity loss, climate change, and ecosystem damage.

Why it matters: While transitioning to sustainable food production systems is a critical component of forest restoration, it is only one part of a complex global puzzle. Individuals and organizations can support these efforts by making more intentional choices, such as prioritizing certified sustainable materials, to help mitigate further loss and contribute to long-term forest resilience.

5. Global banks finance $119 billion to deforestation

Major financial institutions are critically involved in fueling forest destruction by directing billions of dollars toward destructive activities. Without realizing it, a person could be banking with one of the financial giants that collectively contribute an astounding $119 billion USD towards deforestation.

Many institutions not only finance deforestation but also generate profits from it.

The Deforestation Dividends Report indicates that the financial institutions examined in their study accrued approximately $1.74 billion USD from companies significantly contributing to deforestation. These profits are directly tied to environmentally and socially destructive practices.

Why it matters: Holding banks accountable for their investment decisions helps individuals make informed choices about their banking relationships and advocate for greater transparency and sustainability in the financial sector. And when banks prioritize ethical investments, they can drive significant positive change, supporting sustainable development and responsible business practices. 

6. Indigenous Peoples and local communities manage 54 per cent of the world’s intact forests

Indigenous Peoples and local communities are the most effective stewards of the world's most ecologically valuable forests. They currently manage over half –  54 per cent – of the world’s intact forests, securing vital carbon sinks and biodiversity hotspots.

These intact forest landscapes are the world's last remaining unfragmented forests, meaning they are large enough and pristine enough to retain native biodiversity without signs of degradation. Their continued protection is critical for both global climate goals and local livelihoods.

Upholding the land rights of these communities is widely considered the most effective and cost-efficient strategy for long-term protection. Indigenous Peoples’ stewardship efforts sustain the health of these forests far better than external management.

Why it matters: By recognizing and respecting Indigenous Peoples' role as custodians of biodiversity, we can work towards a more inclusive and effective approach to conservation. One benefits both people and the planet. 

7. Healthy forests directly support 2.5 billion people globally

Forests are essential for the survival and prosperity of billions, providing critical ecosystem services far beyond the value of timber. They provide goods, services, employment, and income to roughly 2.5 billion people worldwide (about one-third of the global population).

These life-giving ecosystems also ensure access to clean water. Approximately 75 per cent of the world’s accessible freshwater comes directly from forested watersheds, underscoring their irreplaceable role in water security. Protecting forests means securing humanity’s most fundamental needs: clean air, water, and a stable climate.

Why it matters: These ecosystems also serve as a source of livelihood for millions. This is especially true for rural and Indigenous communities, who depend on forest resources for essential needs, like income generation.  

8. Europe saw 2.25 million ha of tall forests fall over 20 years

Over the past 20 years, Europe has lost 2.25 million hectares of tall forests (trees exceeding 15 meters), an area approximately half the size of Denmark. However, many European forests are harvested at heights of 30 meters or more. This loss is particularly alarming because these ecosystems are not easily replaced.

While a managed forest is harvested at 100 years, these trees can naturally live for over 200 years. Losing millions of hectares from canopy cover means we are erasing decades, if not centuries, of accumulated carbon storage and biodiversity that will take several human generations to restore.

Tall forests are ecologically vital to Europe’s natural heritage, providing crucial habitats for countless species and functioning as robust carbon storage mechanisms.

Why it matters: Human behavior, which leads to timber harvesting and climate change impacts–including wildfires and insect outbreaks–is the main culprit behind the increasing trend of deforestation. Without changing our behavior, deforestation is projected to worsen in severity and scope. 

9. Deforestation produced 3.1 Gt of CO2 emissions in 2024

The elimination of forests destroys carbon sinks, which releases stored carbon into the atmosphere. Forest loss in 2024 alone caused the emission of 3.1 gigatonnes (Gt) of greenhouse gas emissions. For reference, in 2024 total greenhouse gas emissions reached a record high of approximately 57 Gt.

This immense release of carbon dioxide intensifies the greenhouse effect and directly contributes to global warming. As a result, atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations are now 50 per cent higher than they were before the Industrial Revolution.

Stronger forest protection and restoration efforts are urgently needed to slow the climate crisis. Responsible forest management is key to keeping forests intact and ensuring they continue their vital function as long-term carbon sinks.

Why it matters: Without comprehensive deforestation solutions, the rise in CO2 emissions will deteriorate air quality, escalate global temperatures, intensify occurrences of extreme weather events, and trigger even more repercussions associated with global warming.

10. Thirty-four per cent of tree loss worldwide from 2001–2024 is likely permanent

A significant portion of recent global tree cover loss is permanent land conversion. Overall, 34 per cent of tree cover losses worldwide from 2001 to 2024 were the result of (likely) permanent land use change.

When looking specifically at the world’s most crucial forests, this percentage nearly doubles: 61 per cent of loss in tropical primary rainforests is likely associated with permanent land use change.  

In other words, the chance of natural regrowth is low for the majority of primary forests cleared.

This scale of permanent loss is a reason why forest ecosystems depend on the EU’s Deforestation-Free Regulation (EUDR) policy and organizations like FSC. Enforceable policies aim to strengthen protection by requiring companies to prove their products did not contribute to forest degradation in their supply chains.

As an organization, we promote responsible forest management, verifiable supply chains, and EUDR compliance that incentivize keeping productive forests standing rather than degrading them, which would be a reason for permanently converting them.

Why it matters: Permanent forest loss threatens irreplaceable habitats and increases carbon emissions. With the FSC certificate, forest managers have more reasons to protect remaining forest ecosystems. 

11. Certification solutions expanded community and family forests by nearly 250,000 ha in 2024

Certification solutions are a measurable force for positive change in forests. These solutions for community and family forests have resulted in a gain of almost a quarter of a million hectares in approximately one year.

Regulation and certification can empower local stewardship and yield measurable benefits for climate, water, and biodiversity. Globally, community and family forests certified under FSC now cover 12,341,277 hectares.  

This massive area is supported by 500 small and low-intensity managed forest certificates and 146 community certificates

Why it matters: FSC certification empowers local forest managers, providing the credibility and resources needed to sustainably expand and maintain community forests worldwide.

Why healthy forests are crucial in the long term

Healthy forests are not just natural landscapes; they are living systems that maintain the stability of our entire planet. Here’s how they impact both economic and individual interests. 

Benefits for businesses

Healthy forests are a foundation for both forcological and economic resilience. They support industries ranging from timber, paper, and non‑timber forest products to tourism, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture. This support comes in the form of a steady supply of raw materials and healthy ecosystems that sustain productivity.

Forests also protect watersheds, reducing costs for water treatment and irrigation. Additionally, they help stabilize regional climates, preventing costly disruptions to supply chains.

And by preserving biodiversity, forests safeguard genetic resources vital for innovation in sectors like medicine and food production. Simply put, businesses thrive when forests thrive. Protecting them is a long‑term investment in economic stability and growth. 

Benefits for people and the planet

Massive CO2 release is largely how deforestation affects climate change. Robust forests regulate climate by absorbing and storing massive amounts of carbon, safeguarding us against the most dangerous effects of climate change.  

They also filter air and water, support soil fertility, and protect biodiversity by providing habitat for more than 80 per cent of terrestrial species.

For people, the benefits extend even further.

From providing essential livelihoods and cultural resources to ensuring food and water security for billions, healthy forests underpin human well-being. Without them, both ecological balance and social stability are at risk. Forest health is inseparable from our own future, and their longevity depends on how we choose to manage them today. 

What can we do about deforestation?

Deforestation is not a simple problem. It’s a multifaceted issue with many causes and stakeholders. To effectively address the issue, we must analyze a wide breadth of deforestation data and take an equally nuanced approach. 

Forest conservation and restoration

Forest restoration and conservation are intertwined efforts aimed at preserving and enhancing the health and biodiversity of forest ecosystems.  

While conservation focuses on protecting existing forests from degradation and deforestation, restoration efforts rehabilitate degraded or deforested areas to their natural state.  

For restoration efforts to be successful, individuals should consider local factors like the customs and composition of the local community, soil conditions, and the prevailing climate. This helps ensure the chosen restoration techniques are ecologically sound and culturally appropriate.

Together, these approaches contribute to maintaining ecological balance, mitigating climate change impacts and safeguarding critical habitats for wildlife.  

By conserving intact forests and actively restoring degraded ones, communities can promote resilience against environmental threats and ensure the long-term sustainability of forest resources.

Sustainable forest and land management

Sustainable forest and land management practices are an essential part of combating deforestation and prioritizing overall environmental health.  

While forest management focuses on sustainable forest solutions, sustainable land management encompasses broader land-use planning and practices. These strategies prioritize environmental health across various landscapes, including forests.  

By adopting responsible land and forest management practices, stakeholders can meet the demand for products while minimizing the negative impact on ecosystems.  

Governments and organizations can also leverage FSC resources and guidance to enhance their forest management policies. This includes specific criteria and Chain of Custody Certification systems to ensure the sustainability of forest products.  

Become a steward for the forest by seeking out products with FSC labels. Millions of everyday products bear this label, confirming they were sustainably sourced in a way that prioritizes both forests and communities. 

Sustainable agriculture practices

Sustainable agriculture practices help reduce the pressure put on forests by agricultural expansion. Promoting these techniques minimizes the need for clearing new land for farming.

Agroforestry, for example, involves the intentional cultivation of trees alongside crops. The process protects water and soil while enhancing biodiversity, benefits that promote more growth in the long term.

Consumers can support sustainable agriculture by purchasing locally grown produce, reducing food waste and choosing products certified by sustainable agriculture standards.  

For nearly 30 years, FSC has championed a comprehensive approach to sustainable forest management, conservation and restoration. We all have a role to play in safeguarding life-giving forests. And it’s not too late to take action. 

Help reverse deforestation’s impact with FSC

These facts about deforestation make one thing clear: The choices we make today will determine whether future generations thrive or inherit depleted landscapes.

The good news is that solutions already exist. By purchasing products with the FSC label, you actively support sustainable forest management and the communities that depend on it. FSC certification is recognized globally as the most trusted system for ensuring forests remain healthy, resilient, and productive.

Ready to make a difference? Use our Public Certificate Search to find products from responsibly managed forests, and explore our other sustainable solutions. Together, we can halt deforestation and ensure the world’s forests continue to benefit people and the planet. 

Additional resources

Visit the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs for more information on their 17 Sustainable Development Goals.  

For an in-depth analysis of deforestation trends worldwide, visit the Global Forest Review from the World Resources Institute and Our World in Data’s 2021 and 2022 reports on forest destruction.  

Each of these resources provides a nuanced look into the underlying factors contributing to deforestation.  

Complementing these resources is the World Wildlife Fund, a global organization offering reports and initiatives focused on ending climate change.

Sourcing

• European Parliament (2022) Deforestation: causes and how the EU is tackling it. https://www.europarl.europa.eu/topics/en/article/20221019STO44561/deforestation-causes-and-how-the-eu-is-tackling-it (access date 26 September 2025).
• Forest Stewardship Council (2024) FSC Annual Report 2024. https://fsc.org/sites/default/files/2025-08/FSC_Annual%20Report_2024.pdf (access date 26 September 2025).
• Global Forest Watch (2024) Interactive World Forest Map & Tree Cover Change Data. https://www.globalforestwatch.org/map/ (access date 26 September 2025).
• Global Forest Watch (2024) Brazil Deforestation Rates & Statistics. https://www.globalforestwatch.org/dashboards/country/BRA/?category=forest-change (access date 26 September 2025).
• Global Witness (2021) Deforestation Dividends. https://globalwitness.org/en/campaigns/forests/deforestation-dividends/ (access date 26 September 2025).
• NOAA (2025) Climate change: atmospheric carbon dioxide. https://www.climate.gov/news-features/understanding-climate/climate-change-atmospheric-carbon-dioxide (access date 26 September 2025).
• UN News (2023) Healthy forests, healthy planet, healthy humans. https://news.un.org/en/story/2023/03/1134677 (access date 26 September 2025).
• World Resources Institute (2023) New Data Shows What’s Driving Forest Loss Around the World. https://www.wri.org/insights/forest-loss-drivers-data-trends (access date 26 September 2025).
• World Resources Institute (2024) Timber Harvesting and Climate Change Are Depleting Europe's Mature Forests. https://www.wri.org/insights/european-tall-forest-decline (access date 26 September 2025).
• World Resources Institute (2024) Fires Drove Record-breaking Tropical Forest Loss in 2024. https://gfr.wri.org/latest-analysis-deforestation-trends (access date 26 September 2025).
• UN Environment Programme (2024) Emissions Gap Report 2024. https://www.unep.org/resources/emissions-gap-report-2024 (access date 15 January 2026).  
• World Resources Institute (2024) Protecting Biodiversity Hinges on Securing Indigenous and Community Land Rights. https://www.wri.org/insights/indigenous-and-local-community-land-rights-protect-biodiversity (access date 26 September 2025).
• World Resources Institute (2024) Deforestation and Restoration Targets Tracker (Beta). https://gfr.wri.org/forest-targets-tracker (access date 26 September 2025).
• WWF (2023) The Forest Pathways Report 2023 WWF 2023. https://wwfint.awsassets.panda.org/downloads/wwf-forest-pathways-report-2023-web.pdf (access date 26 September 2025).
• WWF (Year) WWF sets out blueprint to save forests as new data reveals ‘devastating’ increase in global deforestation. https://wwf.panda.org/wwf_news/?9918466/WWF-sets-out-blueprint-to-save-forests-as-new-data-reveals-devastating-increase-in-global-deforestation (access date 26 September 2025).