Wildfires have been the predominant driver of tree cover loss, accounting for a significant percentage of the total loss each year. For instance, in 2020, wildfires were responsible for approximately 83% of the total tree cover loss. The impact of these fires is not only limited to the loss of tree cover but also contributes to substantial carbon emissions, with 2020 witnessing an estimated 685 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent emissions.
The trend of tree cover loss and the frequency of wildfire incidents in Australia raise concerns about the health of the country's ecosystems and the broader implications for biodiversity and climate change. As the country continues to report new incidents, the data underscores the importance of understanding and mitigating the factors that contribute to such environmental challenges.
