Castro will struggle on Honduras deforestation pledges

Significance

Around 56% of Honduras is forested, but coverage has decreased rapidly in recent decades. Forests are crucial in regulating ecosystems and mitigating climate change, as well as supporting rural economies and boosting resilience to hazards such as landslides.

Impacts

• Displacement of small farmers from their lands will increase food insecurity.
• The worsening impacts of cattle ranching and agriculture will increase water stress and alter ecosystems.
• New EU rules on deforestation-linked products will hit agricultural exports to the bloc when they come into force.
• Rainy season landslides this month in various parts of Central America illustrate deforestation risks for many Honduran communities.