The “Parques Cómo Vamos” observatory’s annual report reveals a concerning situation for Colombia’s natural parks. Approximately 68% of the country’s continental natural parks are at risk due to various threats. Although deforestation trends are decreasing, other hazards persist. The most critical areas include Catatumbo Barí, Paramillo, and the Farallones de Cali.
The report highlights a reduction in deforestation, with significant decreases observed between 2019 and 2022. However, over 46,000 hectares have been lost since 2019, equivalent to the size of the Munchique National Natural Park. Parques Cómo Vamos aims for zero deforestation in the coming years.Additional threats to these parks include illicit crops, which are present in 14 parks, and heat points, which may increase due to the anticipated El Niño phenomenon, leading to prolonged droughts and increased fires. The report calls for coordinated efforts in early fire warning systems, especially in the Amazonia and Orinoquía regions. Moreover, factors like armed conflict, ecosystem degradation, illegal mining, intensive livestock farming, and pollution put the stability of these ecosystems at risk, with Catatumbo Barí, Paramillo, and the Farallones de Cali being the most critical parks.