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6 Dec 2024

Australia Battles Wildfires as Tree Cover Loss Exceeds Net Gain
Australia Battles Wildfires as Tree Cover Loss Exceeds Net Gain

Australia has recently faced a wildfire incident in Queensland, reflecting a broader trend of environmental challenges. Over the past two decades, Australia has experienced a significant shift in its tree cover landscape. The country's tree cover extent spans over 42 million hectares, which has been subject to various drivers of change.

Analysis of historical data reveals that forestry activities, shifting agriculture, urbanization, and wildfires have been the primary drivers of tree cover loss. Notably, wildfires have been a significant factor, with incidents leading to substantial tree cover loss and associated emissions of carbon dioxide equivalents (CO2e).

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From 2001 to 2022, Australia has seen a net loss in tree cover of approximately 917,000 hectares, despite gains in some areas. This net change represents a decrease of about 1.03% in tree cover. The loss has been partially offset by a tree cover gain of over 1.60 million hectares. However, disturbances, including wildfires, have affected over 6.40 million hectares, underscoring the vulnerability of Australia's forests to such events.

The latest fire alert in Queensland adds to the ongoing challenge of managing and mitigating the impact of wildfires on the environment. The data underscores the need for continued vigilance and strategies to protect and restore Australia's unique and diverse ecosystems.

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