Amazon deforestation satellite

Satellite imagery reveals the advance of deforestation in the Amazon, monitored by programs like INPE's PRODES.

About this subject

Deforestation monitoring in the Amazon relies mainly on Earth observation satellites. Brazil's National Institute for Space Research (INPE) has operated the Amazon Deforestation Calculation Program (PRODES) since 1988, using images from satellites such as Landsat (USA) and CBERS (China-Brazil). These satellites provide enough resolution to detect deforested areas larger than 6.25 hectares.

Satellite imagery shows forest cover loss in near real time. INPE's DETER system issues daily alerts. In 2022, the Amazon lost about 11,568 km² of forest, a 15% increase from the previous year, according to official data. This monitoring is crucial for policies to combat illegal deforestation.

In addition to PRODES, international initiatives like Global Forest Watch (WRI) use satellite imagery to map global forest loss. Remote sensing technology has evolved, with satellites like Sentinel-2 (ESA) offering high-resolution images every 5 days. However, cloud cover remains a challenge in the Amazon region.

Deforestation in the Amazon has various causes: agricultural expansion, illegal mining, land grabbing, and logging. Satellite images are fundamental tools for enforcement and accountability. With recent Brazilian environmental policy, deforestation rates have fluctuated, but continuous monitoring allows trend analysis.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do satellites detect deforestation?

Earth observation satellites like Landsat and Sentinel-2 capture multispectral images that distinguish forest from cleared areas. Algorithms analyze changes in vegetation cover over time to identify new deforestation.

What is the difference between PRODES and DETER?

PRODES is an annual system that calculates the consolidated deforestation rate using end-of-dry-season images. DETER is a daily alert system with lower spatial precision, detecting rapid forest cover changes for enforcement actions.

What are the main causes of deforestation in the Amazon?

Main causes include agricultural expansion (especially pasture and soy), illegal mining, logging, and land grabbing. Road construction also facilitates access to remote areas.