Mexico Battles with Tree Cover Loss and Wildfires, a Growing Environmental Concern

Mexico Battles with Tree Cover Loss and Wildfires, a Growing Environmental Concern

Mexico has been facing a significant challenge with tree cover loss over the past two decades. According to recent data, the country has experienced a net change in tree cover that indicates a loss of approximately 790,308 hectares, which translates to a concerning 1.25% decrease. This loss is primarily attributed to shifting agriculture, which accounts for a substantial portion of the tree cover loss, followed by forestry activities, wildfires, and urbanization.

The impact of wildfires is particularly notable, with the latest incident occurring on January 2, 2025, in the region of Sonora. This incident underscores the ongoing threat that wildfires pose to Mexico's environment. Over the years, wildfires have not only contributed to the loss of tree cover but have also resulted in significant CO2 emissions, further exacerbating the environmental crisis.