Shifting agriculture remains the predominant driver of tree cover loss, accounting for the majority of the 1.60 million metric tons of CO2e gross emissions in 2022. The trend of tree cover loss has been erratic, with peaks and troughs corresponding to varying levels of agricultural activity. Despite this, the overall trajectory has been towards recovery, with gains outstripping losses in recent years.
The environmental implications of these fire incidents are multifaceted, affecting not only the carbon cycle but also biodiversity and the livelihoods of local communities. As South Sudan grapples with these challenges, the focus turns to sustainable management of natural resources to mitigate the impacts of such incidents and ensure the long-term health of the region's ecosystems.