The "Real Plan" and the Loss of Greenery: The Crisis of the Amazon Rainforest

The "Real Plan" and the Loss of Greenery: The Crisis of the Amazon Rainforest
In the three years since 1995, approximately 60,000 square kilometers of Amazon rainforest has disappeared, for a cumulative loss of 530,000 square kilometers, or more than 10% of the total. This is due to the "Real Plan," an economic policy introduced by the Brazilian government in 1994. While the policy achieved inflation control and economic growth, it also encouraged the expansion of soybean cultivation and cattle ranching, and accelerated deforestation. In addition, illegal logging and mineral extraction have also contributed to the destruction. This has exacerbated the decline in biodiversity and climate change. The Brazilian government is taking countermeasures, but weak policing and conflicts with farmers are challenges. There is an urgent need to balance international support and environmental protection.