Madagascar, known for its unique biodiversity, is facing a significant challenge with an escalating trend in tree cover loss, primarily due to shifting agriculture. Over the past two decades, the island nation has experienced a net loss in tree cover of approximately 1.02 million hectares, marking a 5.89% decrease in its forested area. Shifting agriculture remains the predominant driver, accounting for the vast majority of the tree cover loss. The impact of wildfires, while comparatively smaller, is a persistent threat, with recent incidents like the one in Sofia, Madagascar, highlighting the ongoing risks to the region's forests and ecosystems.
The data reveals a concerning pattern of deforestation, with the highest recorded loss in 2017, where over half a million hectares were affected. This trend not only threatens the habitat of countless species but also contributes to the release of significant amounts of carbon emissions, exacerbating climate change. Madagascar's forests, which once covered a substantial portion of the country, are now at a critical juncture, with the stability of remaining tree cover at stake.
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