Colombia's National Parks See 146% Surge in Deforestation, Transition Team Warns

The transition team of president-elect Abelardo de la Espriella has warned that deforestation in Colombia's National Parks surged 146.5% between 2023 and 2024, from 4,682 to 11,544 hectares. Over 48,125 hectares were affected within the park system from 2022 to 2025, according to the incoming environment minister, Fabio Arjona Source: La Silla VacíaSource: Portafolio.

The Warning

Arjona cited illegal mining, cattle ranching, and road construction as key drivers, naming Tinigua, Sierra de la Macarena, Paramillo, Puinawai, Río Puré, and Chiribiquete as the most affected parks Source: Infobae (EFE). He also noted that 195 park officials received death threats in 2025, and that funding for the Herencia Colombia program is at risk Source: La Silla Vacía.

The Response

Parques Nacionales Naturales countered that deforestation must be viewed historically: 2018 was the worst year with 21,048 hectares. They stressed that 2024 levels were still 45% below 2018, and that the outgoing government met its reduction targets Source: Infobae (Parques Nacionales). The entity also highlighted achievements like 72,229 hectares under restoration and over 1,800 conservation agreements Source: Infobae.

Broader Context

El Colombiano reported that overall deforestation in Colombia fell to 79,256 ha in 2023 but rose to 113,608 in 2024, and illegal mining expanded. The article criticizes the Petro government for a gap between discourse and results Source: El Colombiano. Analysts note that structural issues like land grabbing and armed groups persist.