Angola has been facing a significant challenge with tree cover loss over the past two decades. The latest incident report from Cuando Cubango Province indicates a fire alert, adding to the country's environmental concerns. Analysis of historical data reveals that shifting agriculture is the predominant driver of tree cover loss, responsible for the vast majority of the hectares lost. The cumulative impact of these losses has been profound, with a net change in tree cover showing a decrease of 4.41% overall.
The country's tree cover extent spans over 55 million hectares, which has been under persistent threat from various factors. Wildfires, although not the leading cause, have also contributed to the degradation of Angola's forests. The data indicates a consistent trend of tree cover loss, with the most recent year, 2022, experiencing a loss of over 266,000 hectares. This trend underscores the urgency for attention to the country's natural resources.
Explore country profileThe impact of these losses is not just limited to the environment but also extends to the release of carbon emissions. With millions of metric tons of CO2 equivalent released due to tree cover loss, the incidents have broader implications for global climate change concerns. The latest fire alert in Cuando Cubango Province is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges Angola faces in preserving its natural landscapes.
