ODS 15 - Vida de ecosistemas terrestres

Updated: November 13, 2025

Comisión Económica para América Latina y el Caribe (CEPAL)


Summary

Human activities and climate change are causing deforestation and desertification in Latin America, impacting millions of people and natural resources. The region lost nearly 10% of its forested area in 2015, leading to changes in land use and water availability. Agriculture, while being a major source of income and production, contributes to 42% of greenhouse gas emissions in the region, leading to water scarcity and ecosystem impacts.


Deforestation and Desertification Challenges

Deforestation and desertification caused by human activities and climate change pose significant challenges for sustainable development, impacting the lives and livelihoods of millions of people in Latin America.

Impact on Regional Resources and Regulation

These issues affect the natural resources of Latin America and have implications for regional and global food, water, and energy security, as well as air quality and human health.

Loss of Forest Area

In 2015, the region lost nearly 10% of its forested area, with deforestation being a reality in most subregions, leading to changes in land use and water availability.

Agricultural Contribution and Challenges

Agriculture accounts for 42% of greenhouse gas emissions in the region, leading to water scarcity and impacting ecosystems, despite being a major source of income and production.


FAQ

Q: What are some of the challenges posed by deforestation and desertification in Latin America?

A: Deforestation and desertification in Latin America pose challenges for sustainable development, impacting the lives and livelihoods of millions of people and affecting natural resources. These issues also have implications for regional and global food, water, and energy security, as well as air quality and human health.

Q: How much forested area did Latin America lose in 2015?

A: In 2015, Latin America lost nearly 10% of its forested area.

Q: What is the impact of deforestation on land use and water availability?

A: Deforestation in Latin America leads to changes in land use and impacts water availability in the region.

Q: What percentage of greenhouse gas emissions in Latin America is accounted for by agriculture?

A: Agriculture accounts for 42% of greenhouse gas emissions in Latin America.

Q: Despite being a major source of income and production, what negative effects does agriculture have in Latin America?

A: In Latin America, agriculture leads to water scarcity, impacts ecosystems, and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions despite being a major source of income and production.

Logo

Get your own AI Agent Today

Thousands of businesses worldwide are using Chaindesk Generative AI platform.
Don't get left behind - start building your own custom AI chatbot now!