Guinea has experienced a significant decline in its tree cover over the past two decades, with a net loss of approximately 1.59 million hectares, marking an 8.34% decrease in tree cover. The primary driver of this loss has been identified as shifting agriculture, accounting for a substantial portion of the deforestation. Other contributing factors include wildfires, urbanization, and forestry activities. The most recent incident, a fire alert in the region of Labé, Guinea, underscores the ongoing challenges the country faces in managing its natural resources.
The data reveals a worrying trend of escalating tree cover loss, with the highest annual loss recorded in 2017, at over 231,000 hectares. Wildfires have also played a significant role, with notable peaks in 2016 and 2019. The impact of these losses is profound, considering Guinea's rich biodiversity and the importance of its forests for local livelihoods and global climate regulation.
Explore country profileDespite some gains in tree cover, the overall trend points to a need for urgent action to address the causes of deforestation and to promote sustainable land management practices. The recent fire incident in Labé serves as a reminder of the fragility of Guinea's forest ecosystems and the importance of safeguarding them for future generations.
