Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva has been re-elected as Brazil's president, securing a historic fourth term. His victory over far-right opponent Flávio Bolsonaro carries significant implications for climate as deforestation rates in the Amazon have drastically fallen under his leadership. Official data shows an annual deforestation rate of 3,335 square kilometers between August 2025 and July 2026. This is a stark contrast to Jair Bolsonaro's presidency, during which deforestation surged by approximately 60%. Lula's administration has reduced deforestation by a remarkable 71% since 2023.Upon his return to office in January 2023, Lula revived the Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of Deforestation in the Legal Amazon, or PPCDAm. This plan, originally launched in 2004, was suspended under Bolsonaro. The PPCDAm focuses on strengthening monitoring, promoting a sustainable economy, managing protected areas, and using financial incentives to reduce deforestation. Key measures include reinstating sanctions for illegal clearing, barring properties with deforestation from bank loans, and increasing funding for municipalities that reduce forest loss. The plan also supports efforts to combat environmental crime and fund sustainable businesses.Deforestation is Brazil's primary source of greenhouse gas emissions, contributing significantly to global warming. The Amazon rainforest plays a crucial role in storing carbon dioxide and regulating weather patterns. Threats like wildfires, logging, and drought are already impacting a large portion of the Amazon. Lula's reelection campaign pledged to achieve zero net deforestation by 2030 and to restore all lost forest areas.