Paraná's Environmental Crime Reduction Celebrated on Forest Protection Day: A Technological Triumph

Paraná, Brazil, is marking Forest Protection Day with a significant achievement: a decrease in environmental crimes during the first half of 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. This positive trend, encompassing a reduction in illegal deforestation, irregular soil movement, and illegal timber transport, showcases the effectiveness of the state's environmental policies. The Instituto Água e Terra (IAT) attributes this success to the intensified monitoring and enforcement efforts, which leverage advanced technology. For instance, the state has dramatically reduced the area deforested, from nearly 7,000 hectares in 2021 to just 325 hectares in the first half of 2025. This success story is a testament to the power of technology. The IAT's use of satellite technology, helicopters, and drones has been crucial in combating environmental crimes. This approach allows for real-time monitoring and rapid response to illegal activities, a strategy that is proving to be highly effective. The use of these tools allows for a more comprehensive and efficient approach to environmental protection, enabling authorities to cover vast areas and detect violations with greater precision. Furthermore, in 2024, Paraná reduced illegal suppression of the Atlantic Forest by 64.9%, with 75% of municipalities increasing native forest areas between 2019 and 2023. This commitment to environmental protection is a crucial step in preserving the region's rich biodiversity and mitigating the impacts of climate change. The state's proactive measures and technological investments are setting a positive example for other regions facing similar environmental challenges.