Using "electronic markers" to control Amazon deforestation

The Brazilian government will use electronic markers to detect illegal felling of trees in the Amazon forests via satellite as illegal encroachment has threatened the sensitive ecosystem The satellite will help monitor cattle herds and ranchers who illegally cut trees.

Ranchers will be required to place “electronic markers” along the boundaries of their properties that will be monitored via satellite, allowing officials to track the movement of herds in “real time”. If the ranchers were found to have cleared the rainforest, their markers will be removed, preventing them from selling their cattle.

The Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa) has developed the system in collaboration with other stakeholders.

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