Analysis of historical data from 2001 to 2019 reveals that the total tree cover loss in Iraq has significantly reduced, with the highest recorded loss of nearly 20 hectares in 2003 and the lowest at just 0.06 hectares in 2019. There has been a net gain in tree cover of approximately 8,904 hectares when accounting for both losses and gains over the years. This represents a net change of about 30.50% in tree cover, indicating a positive trend in the recovery and expansion of green areas.
The causes of tree cover loss have not been explicitly identified due to the absence of data on specific drivers such as shifting agriculture, forestry practices, wildfires, and urbanization. However, the downward trend in tree cover loss suggests that the impact of these potential drivers may be lessening or that conservation efforts are having a positive effect.
The recent fire alert in Basra, although limited in scale, serves as a reminder of the environmental vulnerabilities that Iraq faces. It underscores the importance of continued vigilance and proactive measures to protect and expand the country's tree cover for the benefit of its environment and the well-being of its inhabitants.
