Nonforest Ecosystems Are Being Converted to Agriculture Faster Than Forests
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A new report reveals grasslands, wetlands, and other nonforest ecosystems are being converted to agricultural land at approximately four times the rate of forests. Between 2005 and 2020, nearly 190 million hectares—an area almost the size of Mexico—were converted, with Brazil leading the conversion. The findings highlight a significant gap in current regulations focused solely on deforestation.
Facts First
- Nonforest ecosystems are being lost to agriculture at four times the rate of forests
- Nearly 190 million hectares were converted from 2005 to 2020, an area almost the size of Mexico
- Brazil experienced the highest amount of conversion, followed by China, Russia, and the United States
- The European Union’s deforestation-free regulation (EUDR) targets commodities linked to deforestation but not nonforest loss
- Both forest and nonforest ecosystems contribute to biodiversity and carbon sequestration
What Happened
The Rainforest Alliance, World Resources Institute (WRI), and partner organizations released a new report finding that grasslands, wetlands, and other nonforest ecosystems are being converted to agricultural land at approximately four times the rate of forests. Between 2005 and 2020, about 190 million hectares of these nonforest natural ecosystems were converted, mostly to pastures and farms. Brazil experienced the highest amount of conversion, followed by China, Russia, and the United States.
Why this Matters to You
Agricultural expansion into these landscapes may affect global biodiversity and the planet's capacity to sequester carbon. The current European Union’s deforestation-free regulation (EUDR) does not cover this rapid conversion of nonforest ecosystems. This could mean products you consume, like cattle, coffee, cocoa, soy, or rubber, might still be linked to significant environmental loss even if they are not from deforested areas.
What's Next
The report's findings could prompt a reevaluation of environmental regulations and corporate sustainability commitments. Policymakers and companies may need to consider expanding protections to include nonforest ecosystems to effectively safeguard biodiversity and carbon stocks. Consumer awareness and demand for products sourced from land-conversion-free supply chains could also increase.