Brazil's ex-president Lula da Silva unveils 'net zero deforestation' policy, a promise that he would fight illegal deforestation if elected to power
Under Bolsonaro, deforestation rates in the Amazon have surged as the president backs farm and ranching expansion in the region.
"Our commitment is to the relentless fight against illegal deforestation and the promotion of net zero deforestation," it said, noting "net zero" deforestation plans would include restoration of degraded areas. Political observers say Lula, who ruled from 2003-2010, has a realistic change at becoming Brazil's president again - and is using environmental policies as a way to differentiate himself from the incumbent president.Whether Brazil could reach "net zero" deforestation within a Lula four-year presidential term depends on what the candidate means by the phrase, analysts said.
Brazil needs to focus on "zero" deforestation rather than just "net zero", said Luis Fernando Guedes Pinto, executive director of SOS Mata Atlantica, a environmental non-profit. A large-scale restoration push could also be used to deliver one of Lula's other big campaign promises: green jobs.