Deforestation in the Amazon — [Steve McCabe in the Chair]

Mr Sobel expressed deep concern about the rapid deforestation in the Amazon under President Bolsonaro, highlighting that it has reached unprecedented levels with an area seven times greater than London destroyed last year alone. He emphasized the need to support indigenous leaders such as Chief Raoni and Chief Almir Surui who are fighting against illegal land grabbing bills like Bill 2633 and Bill 510 in Brazil. Mr Sobel also highlighted the WWF's findings that new species are being discovered regularly, underscoring the importance of preserving biodiversity to prevent future pandemics.

He highlighted the importance of transitioning to plant-based diets but noted that soy demand remains a significant driver of deforestation. He mentioned that the UK's annual soy consumption between 2016 and 2018 required an area of land the size of Wales, with only 27% certified as deforestation-free. Gardiner emphasized the need for regulation and legislative measures to address this issue.

Mr O'Hara highlighted the critical role of the Amazon rainforest in global environmental health and criticised Brazil's government for promoting illegal activities that contribute to deforestation. He pointed out that British financial institutions have provided more than $2 billion to Brazilian beef companies linked to deforestation. The MP emphasised the severe impact on indigenous populations, citing increased land invasions and human rights abuses under President Bolsonaro's leadership. O'Hara also noted a 135% increase in illegal activities within indigenous territories during Bolsonaro's first year of power.

She expressed concern over the impact of the UK Government's aid cuts on deforestation efforts in the Amazon. She highlighted the critical importance of the forest as a carbon sink, containing 76 billion tonnes of carbon, and warned that losing just 5% more could trigger an irreversible tipping point. Catherine West also raised concerns about the Brazilian government's legislative package that would benefit land grabbers and approve major infrastructure projects at the expense of the Amazon rainforest.

Experienced internet instability issues, but now stable and able to participate in the debate. Mr Law highlighted the increasing deforestation rates in Brazil and the failure of urgent action to materialise. He expressed concern over legislative changes that could lead to unsustainable deforestation, threatening the environment, indigenous peoples, and climate change efforts. Mr Law also criticised the UK Government's aid cuts and their lack of commitment to projects aimed at preventing deforestation. He called for international cooperation, condemning Brazil's approach and urging the UK to prioritise protecting the Amazon during trade talks and COP26.

Jim Shannon thanked the right hon. Member for Epsom and Ewell for setting the scene on deforestation in Brazil, highlighting its global impact. He cited Global Forest Watch data showing a 12% increase in primary forest loss in 2020, including a loss of 4.2 million hectares. Shannon urged the Minister to consider reducing demand in the UK for goods resulting from deforestation and joining other countries to reduce deforestation levels.

Ms Kerry McCarthy expressed concern about the devastating increase in Amazonian deforestation, noting a 13% rise with over 11,000 sq km of forest lost in 2020. She highlighted that UK consumption is driving this deforestation and criticised vague government responses on supply chain transparency and environmental degradation from Brazilian exports.

It is important to discuss deforestation in the Amazon, as it contributes significantly to carbon dioxide emissions. The production of palm oil encourages deforestation and poses challenges for sustainable practices. The UK has taken steps towards using sustainably produced palm oil but needs to work with other countries to solve this complex issue.

Mr Parish discussed the need for the UK to show global leadership in protecting the Amazon, highlighting the inadequacies of current due diligence obligations in the Environment Bill. He cited a Global Witness report indicating that UK banks invested £5 billion between 2013 and 2019 in companies linked to illegal deforestation. Parish emphasised the importance of financial measures to address environmental damage caused by major agribusinesses in Brazil, advocating for stricter controls on funding these entities.