Brazil risks deforestation in Amazon
A photo released by Brazil’s environment ministry shows a deforested area in the rain forest in the southern Para state.
Brazil risks losing an area of forest equal to the size of Germany, Italy and Austria if it goes ahead with new laws on land clearance, a conservationist group warns.
New legislation could result in 175 million acres of forest being cleared or not restored, according to WWF, reports the Telegraph.
Deforestation in the world's largest rainforest fell steadily between 2004 and 2010, but there have been signs of renewed destruction this year.
The measures under consideration would allow parts of the rainforest to be used for cattle ranching and soy production.
The bill has passed the lower house and the Sente is due to vote before the end of the month. It will then be sent back to the lower house before going to the president.
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