Brazil deforestation slows again (BBC)

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By Gary Duffy
BBC News, Sao Paulo

Deforestation in the Amazon rainforest fell by 20% between August 2006 and July 2007, according to interim figures released by the Brazilian government.

It is the third year in a row that there has been a fall.

Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said the new figures were good, but felt Brazil could have done more.

Environmental groups said the government is celebrating a past achievement when it knows the rate of deforestation is on the increase again.

Enormous challenge

While the Brazilian government views the fall in deforestation as encouraging news, there is a general recognition that protecting the Amazon is an enormous challenge.
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more: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/americas/7133957.stm