South Africa Grapples with Tree Cover Loss and Wildfires in Eastern Cape

South Africa Grapples with Tree Cover Loss and Wildfires in Eastern Cape

South Africa's tree cover has faced significant challenges over the past two decades, with a net loss of 141,776.52 hectares, marking a -1.86% change in tree cover. The latest incident in the Eastern Cape is a continuation of a troubling trend. The primary drivers of tree cover loss have been shifting agriculture and forestry, which together account for a substantial portion of the total loss. Wildfires, although contributing to a smaller fraction of the loss, remain a persistent threat to the region's tree cover. Urbanization also plays a role, albeit to a lesser extent. The cumulative impact of these factors has led to a complex environmental situation that requires ongoing attention and sustainable management practices to mitigate further loss and promote recovery.