The Dark Side of Colombia Few People Know

#18: Deforestation Surges To Crisis Levels

Colombia’s forests are disappearing faster than ever. In 2024, deforestation jumped by more than 40%, driven by land grabbing, illegal cattle ranching, and fires linked to criminal activity. Vast parts of the Amazon and national parks are being cleared with little oversight or protection.

These forests are home to Indigenous communities and thousands of unique species now under threat. Environmental groups warn that once-lush areas are turning into wasteland. The destruction fuels climate change, pollutes rivers, and erases ecosystems that can never be restored.