A groundbreaking report by environmental groups Size of Wales and WWF Cymru has uncovered a hidden connection between deforestation in the Amazon rainforest and pollution in UK rivers, particularly the River Wye. The study highlights the role of soy imported from Brazil, which is used as livestock feed in the UK. High in phosphorus, the soy becomes a pollutant when animal manure runs off into waterways, exacerbating phosphate pollution in rivers across Wales and beyond. The report calls for urgent action to halt the import of commodities linked to deforestation, emphasizing the profound impact of consumer choices on global ecosystems and indigenous communities. The Welsh government has acknowledged the issue, stating it is taking ‘ambitious steps’ to address the problem. The findings coincide with the COP30 climate talks in Belém, Brazil, where world leaders are discussing strategies to combat deforestation and climate change. The report also urges governments and local councils to adopt deforestation-free supply chains and promote sustainable diets. Positive examples of leadership in Wales include Caerphilly and Monmouthshire councils, which have implemented deforestation-free criteria for food procurement. Monmouthshire has even replaced chicken curry with a deforestation-free chickpea korma on school menus, following lobbying by local pupils. The report underscores the need for collective action to protect the planet for future generations.