Deforestation in the Amazon — [Mr Philip Hollobone in the Chair]

Stressed the importance of addressing deforestation in the Amazon, highlighting that it is a global issue impacting the fate of our planet. He noted that more than half of tropical forests worldwide have been destroyed over the last 60 years and mentioned the need for financial backing to combat illegal deforestation. Andrew Selous also called for better enforcement of commitments made at COP26 and suggested creating a global equivalent of the Fairtrade Foundation logo for products not contributing to deforestation.

He noted that deforestation in the Amazon has increased despite previous debates, highlighting a rise of 22% over the past year. He criticised the Bolsonaro regime for its actions and lack of enforcement against illegal activities. Law also pointed out that Brazil is considering Bills which would legalise land grabbing and weaken environmental protections, contrary to international commitments made at COP26.

He expressed concern over the worsening situation in the Amazon since the last debate, highlighting road building and legislative changes as major threats. He emphasized the importance of the UK pressuring Brazil to halt deforestation immediately and before any trade agreements are made.

Jim Shannon expressed concern about the ongoing deforestation in the Amazon rainforest and highlighted its environmental and ecological impacts. He mentioned that recent data shows a 15-year high in deforestation with 13,235 sq km of forest lost between August 2020 and July 2021. Shannon also noted Northern Ireland's status as the second most deforested part of Europe and called for increased pressure on Brazil to halt continuous deforestation.

McCarthy highlighted the devastating impact of deforestation in the Amazon on climate and biodiversity, noting that it is a net emitter of carbon due to relentless clearing. She called for more action from developed nations like Brazil and advocated for green finance mechanisms such as blue bonds to help countries preserve their natural resources. McCarthy criticised the Environment Act 2021's limitations and urged for stronger provisions addressing deforestation when secondary legislation comes forward. She also expressed concern about UK trade deals with Australia, given its poor record on deforestation. Will the Minister explain the logic of putting British money into such projects but allowing Bolsonaro other things? That is a pittance compared to what is happening on the negative side. Is it not just throwing away our money, when we could achieve far more if we were able to stop the deforestation that is happening elsewhere in the country?

My argument with the Brazilians is twofold: not only is there deforestation, but they are not making good use of the land when farming it. They deplete soil fertility and move on to other land. Mr Parish expressed concern over Brazil's deforestation, noting that an area twice the size of Devon was deforested in a single year. He cited data showing significant loss of rainforest from 1990 to 2016 and recent deforestation rates in the Amazon. Mr Parish highlighted the importance of maintaining current tree cover, biodiversity support, and indigenous communities' rights. He welcomed UK Government actions but urged for stronger measures against illegal deforestation through due diligence on supply chains and pressure on financial institutions. He intervened to call for pressure on British banks funding illegal deforestation, despite commitments from other financial institutions to stop doing so.