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4 Dec 2024

Central African Republic Grapples with Shifting Agriculture Impact on Forests
Central African Republic Grapples with Shifting Agriculture Impact on Forests

The Central African Republic (CAR) is facing significant environmental challenges as shifting agriculture continues to be the primary driver of tree cover loss. Over the years, the CAR has experienced a substantial decline in its forested areas, which are crucial for the ecological balance and the well-being of its inhabitants.

Analysis of historical data reveals a consistent pattern of tree cover loss, primarily due to shifting agriculture. This practice has led to a net loss of approximately 1.22 million hectares of tree cover, with a slight gain of around 482,000 hectares, resulting in a net negative change of over 727,000 hectares. This equates to a 1.32% decrease in the country's tree cover.

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The most recent incident in Bamingui-Bangoran highlights the ongoing environmental strain, with fire alerts indicating the persistent threat to the region's forests. While the single fire alert recorded on December 4, 2024, may seem minor, it is a symptom of a larger issue that has seen millions of hectares lost and significant emissions of CO2 equivalent over the past two decades.

The cumulative impact of these losses is profound, not only in terms of biodiversity and habitat destruction but also concerning the livelihoods of local communities and the nation's capacity to combat climate change. The situation in the CAR serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between human activities and environmental conservation.

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