Canada's Forests Under Threat: Wildfires and Deforestation Challenge Sustainability

Canada's Forests Under Threat: Wildfires and Deforestation Challenge Sustainability

Canada's vast forests, covering over 418 million hectares, are facing a significant sustainability challenge, with wildfires and deforestation leading the charge. Over the past two decades, the country has witnessed a net loss of approximately 8.20 million hectares in tree cover, which equates to a 2.76% decrease in its forested area. The primary drivers of this loss have been identified as forestry practices and wildfires, which together account for the majority of the tree cover decline.

Forestry activities have been the most significant factor, contributing to over 50% of the total tree cover loss. Wildfires, exacerbated by shifting climate conditions, have also played a substantial role, with some years seeing wildfires as the dominant cause of tree cover loss. Urbanization and shifting agriculture, while less impactful overall, have further contributed to the changing landscape.