In a concerning environmental trend, South Africa has experienced significant tree cover loss over the past two decades, with recent data indicating a single wildfire incident in the Eastern Cape. The country's total area spans over 121 million hectares, with approximately 5.98 million hectares of tree cover. However, the net change in tree cover reveals a loss of 530,16.50 hectares, alongside a gain of 388,239.98 hectares, resulting in a net negative change of 141,776.52 hectares, which is a 1.86% decrease from the original tree cover extent.
The drivers of tree cover loss include shifting agriculture, forestry, wildfires, and urbanization. Notably, forestry has been the leading cause, followed by shifting agriculture. Wildfires, while contributing to a lesser extent, have been a persistent issue, as evidenced by the latest fire alert. The cumulative impact of these factors has led to a complex environmental challenge for the nation.
Explore country profileAs South Africa confronts these environmental setbacks, the focus turns to the implications for biodiversity, climate change, and the well-being of its ecosystems. The data underscores the need for a broader discussion on sustainable land management and environmental conservation strategies to mitigate further loss and promote recovery.
