How to read deforestation data

A short explanation page for the methods, source notes, and limits behind the first deforestation dashboard.

First explainer draft

This page will become the short article defined in the MVP roadmap.

Initial source: INPE / TerraBrasilis PRODES. Data source last updated on 2026-03-30; checked for this MVP on 2026-04-30.

What the dataset shows

The first dataset shows annual PRODES deforestation rates for the Brazilian Legal Amazon, measured in square kilometers.

How to read the reporting year

A PRODES year covers August 1 through July 31. For example, the 2025 value covers August 1, 2024 through July 31, 2025.

Why 2010 is the baseline

The dashboard uses 2010 as a simple comparison point, making it easier to read whether the latest value is above or below a recent historical reference.

What the data cannot prove

The annual rate is useful for trend reading, but it does not explain why forest loss happened or whether individual clearings were legal.