Explained: Why Amazon fires are worrying | Explained News, The Indian Express

Explained: Why Amazon fires are worrying | Explained News, The Indian Express

Written by Neha Banka |Kolkata |Updated: August 23, 2019 8:54:17 am

Explained: Why Amazon fires are worrying

Man-made fires in the world’s largest rainforest have sent smoke to populated cities and the Atlantic coast. Why does it bring focus on President Bolsonaro’s policies? What impact can it have on the environment?

Brazil has seen a record number of wildfires this year, counting 74,155 as of Tuesday, an 84 pe rcent increase compared to the same period last year. Bolsonaro took office on January 1. (Reuters)

Over the last several days, the Amazon rainforest has been burning at a rate that has alarmed environmentalists and governments worldwide. Mostly caused by farmers clearing land, the fires have thrown the spotlight on Brazil President Jair Bolsonaro’s policies and anti-environment stance.