Venezuela has experienced a significant tree cover loss over the past two decades, with recent data indicating a fire incident in the region of Guárico. The country, which boasts an area of over 91 million hectares, has a tree cover extent of approximately 56.50 million hectares. However, the net change in tree cover has been negative, with a loss of 1.86 million hectares and a gain of just 491,357 hectares, resulting in a net loss of nearly 1.37 million hectares, marking a 2.49% decrease in tree cover.
Shifting agriculture has been the primary driver of tree cover loss, accounting for a substantial portion of the total deforestation. Forestry activities, wildfires, and urbanization also contribute to the ongoing reduction of tree cover. The cumulative impact of these factors has led to significant carbon dioxide equivalent emissions, further exacerbating the environmental concerns.
Explore country profileThe latest fire alert from Guárico serves as a reminder of the persistent threat of wildfires in the region. As Venezuela continues to face these environmental challenges, the need for sustainable management and conservation of its forests becomes increasingly apparent. The country's rich biodiversity and ecological importance underscore the urgency for measures to mitigate tree cover loss and protect its natural heritage.
