Newslish
ArchiveLesson #209World

Brazil's Amazon Deforestation Rates Fall

Brazil's Amazon deforestation rates have dropped significantly ahead of the presidential election, with President Lula aiming for zero illegal deforestation by 2030.

Free · No ads

Pick your level

Standard version (B1-B2)

Standard: natural English

Brazil's government reports that rates in the Amazon rainforest have fallen to record lows. This is important as the presidential election approaches. Left-wing President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva aims to end illegal by 2030. He took office three years ago and reversed many policies of his predecessor, Jair Bolsonaro. Under Bolsonaro, , but Lula's government is now the forest more closely. Satellite data shows a 41.8% in rates in the Amazon. This is the biggest drop since records began in 1988. The Amazon rainforest is crucial for the environment and helps fight climate change.

Lesson audio

Standard level

Tap to play

Narration includes the headline and summary.

Adapted from BBC and rewritten at three levels by Newslish. Newslish is not affiliated with the source. Read the original.

Key vocabulary

  • deforestation noun

    The act of cutting down trees in a forest.

    “Deforestation can harm wildlife and increase carbon emissions.”

  • surge verb

    To increase suddenly and greatly.

    “The number of trees cut down can surge if laws are not enforced.”

  • environmental adjective

    Related to the natural world and the impact of human activity.

    “Environmental protection is important for future generations.”

  • monitoring noun

    The act of observing or checking something over time.

    “Monitoring the forest helps prevent illegal activities.”

  • decline noun

    A decrease in quantity or quality.

    “There has been a decline in pollution levels due to new regulations.”

Quick quiz

01What is the main idea of the article?

02What does 'surge' mean as used in the text?

03Who is the current president of Brazil?

04What is the goal of President Lula regarding deforestation?

Answered 0 of 4

Discussion

What do you think about the goal to achieve zero illegal deforestation by 2030? In your answer, use the words 'environmental' and 'monitoring'.