Ice Age climate swings shaped the equatorial basin’s terrain—and possibly its ecology—faster than previously thought.
Amazonia
Mining Threatens Isolated Indigenous Peoples in the Amazon
A bill in the Brazilian congress could grant a wide expansion for mining on Indigenous lands. New research shows how this could radically affect isolated peoples.
Amazon Water Cycle Observed from Space
Satellite observations offer invaluable insights into hydrological processes and environmental change in the Amazon.
The Perspective from Space Unlocks the Amazon Water Cycle
Satellite imaging and remote sensing offer unique insights into the Amazon’s complex hydrology. A new review summarizes decades of findings and charts a path forward for new remote sensing missions.
Traditional Knowledge Is Essential to Sustainability in the Amazon
At COP26, the Science Panel for the Amazon is emphasizing the need for Indigenous and Local Knowledge to inform scientific and policy recommendations.
New Report Puts the Amazon Rain Forest on the Main Stage at COP26
The Science Panel for the Amazon prepares to launch its first report, the most comprehensive document on the rain forest so far.
Forest Recovery in the Amazon Is a Slow Process
For the first time, a study analyzes Amazon forest loss and recovery at national and subnational levels. One finding shows that new plantings offset less than 10% of emissions associated with deforestation.
Amazon Deforestation and Fires are a Hazard to Public Health
Deforestation in the Amazon has dropped since the early 2000s, but it is slowly climbing again. A new study shows the impact of that climb on public health—and how much worse conditions could be.
Indigenous Peoples Harness Space Technology to Stop Deforestation
Satellite observations have long been used to detect deforestation, and a new study shows that giving Indigenous groups greater access to these data can improve response times and reduce tree cover loss.
Amazon Forests Are Turning into Savannas
Floodplain forests have low resilience to repeated exposure to wildfires. As climate change increases the instances of fires, forests may transform to less productive grassland ecosystems.