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2 Feb 2025

Alarming Deforestation Trends in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
Alarming Deforestation Trends in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is facing a significant challenge with the loss of its tree cover. Over the past two decades, the DRC has experienced a net loss in tree cover of approximately 6 million hectares, which equates to a 3.55% decrease in its total tree cover. Shifting agriculture has been identified as the primary driver of this loss, accounting for the vast majority of the deforestation.

The data reveals a concerning trend, with the highest recorded tree cover loss in 2014, reaching over 1.30 million hectares. Although there have been fluctuations over the years, the overall trajectory points to a persistent decline in forested areas. This loss not only impacts the rich biodiversity of the region but also contributes to the global issue of climate change due to the significant carbon emissions associated with deforestation.

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Recent incidents, such as a fire alert in Haut-Uele on February 2, 2025, underscore the ongoing environmental challenges faced by the DRC. These incidents, although seemingly small in number, are part of a larger pattern of environmental degradation that requires attention.

The DRC's vast forests are a critical component of the global ecosystem, and the continued loss of tree cover could have far-reaching consequences for both the local environment and the planet. The data underscores the need for concerted efforts to address the drivers of deforestation and promote sustainable land management practices.

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