Côte d'Ivoire is facing significant environmental challenges as recent data reveals a concerning trend of tree cover loss. Over the past two decades, the country has experienced a net loss of approximately 1.65 million hectares of tree cover, which equates to a 6.94% decrease from its original extent. The primary driver of this loss has been shifting agriculture, accounting for the vast majority of the deforestation, followed by urbanization and forestry activities.
The impact of these changes is further compounded by incidents such as the latest fire alert in the Savanes District. Although only one incident was reported on December 5, 2024, it highlights the ongoing vulnerability of the region's forests to wildfires. The cumulative effect of these factors is a significant alteration of the country's natural landscape and a potential threat to its biodiversity.
Explore country profileThe loss of tree cover not only affects the local ecosystem but also contributes to global environmental concerns, such as climate change, due to the associated emissions of greenhouse gases. As Côte d'Ivoire continues to lose its tree cover, the need for sustainable land management practices becomes increasingly critical to preserve the remaining forests and mitigate further environmental degradation.
