DRC Battles Deforestation: A Decade of Tree Cover Dynamics and Recent Fire Incident

DRC Battles Deforestation: A Decade of Tree Cover Dynamics and Recent Fire Incident

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has faced significant environmental challenges over the past two decades, with deforestation being a prominent concern. The country, which boasts a vast area of over 232 million hectares, has seen a substantial portion of its tree cover affected by various drivers. Analysis of historical data reveals that shifting agriculture is the primary cause of tree cover loss, contributing to the majority of the 7.59 million hectares of deforestation recorded. This loss represents a 3.55% decrease in the country's tree cover.

Notably, the DRC has also experienced a recent fire incident in the Haut-Uele region, adding to the environmental pressures. Although the incident count is currently at one, the impact of such events on the already vulnerable forest landscape can be significant.