Brazil’s special forces wage uphill fight against Amazon deforestation

An officer of the Brazilian Institute of Environment and Renewable Natural Resources questions a man found living near a recent deforestation site.

(Vincent Bevins / For The Times)

July 10, 2015 2:45 AM PT

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Deforestation in Brazil, which is home to more than half of the world’s largest rain forest, stopped decreasing in 2012 despite efforts of law enforcement officers.

IBAMA agents arrive at an illegal clearing site.

(Vincent Bevins / For The Times)

An IBAMA officer checks a recent deforestation site. By inspecting the tree, he can tell a chainsaw was used.

(Vincent Bevins / For The Times)

IBAMA agents, unable to catch the criminals in the act, set fire to an illegal settlement and deforestation base camp.

(Vincent Bevins / For The Times)

A view from the IBAMA helicopter shows how deforestation takes more and more of the jungle away.

(Vincent Bevins / For The Times)

World & Nation

Brazil’s special forces wage uphill fight against Amazon deforestation

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