Suriname’s Forest Pledge Highlights Global Failures Amid Rising Amazon Deforestation

In a world where the Amazon rainforest continues to suffer devastating losses, Suriname has stepped into the spotlight with an ambitious pledge: permanently protect 90% of its tropical forests. This commitment, delivered by Foreign Minister Melvin W.J. Bouva during Climate Week in New York City, far outstrips global conservation targets endorsed by the United Nations. At first glance, this sounds like a beacon of hope for environmentalists and climate advocates alike. After all, Suriname holds approximately 93% forest cover—the highest in the world—and is one of just three countries acting as a net carbon sink, absorbing more CO2 than it...