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6 Dec 2024

Benin Battles Tree Cover Loss as Shifting Agriculture Dominates
Benin Battles Tree Cover Loss as Shifting Agriculture Dominates

Benin has witnessed a significant decline in tree cover over the past two decades, primarily due to shifting agriculture practices. The West African nation, with an area of over 11.50 million hectares, has seen a net loss of tree cover amounting to 358,091 hectares, which represents a 7.12% decrease from its original tree cover extent.

Shifting agriculture has been the leading cause of this decline, responsible for the vast majority of the tree cover loss. Urbanization, while contributing to a lesser extent, has also played a role in the reduction of Benin's tree cover. The loss of tree cover has not only affected the landscape but has also resulted in significant emissions of carbon dioxide, further exacerbating the challenge of climate change.

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The most recent incident in Atakora Department, where a fire alert was recorded, is a stark reminder of the ongoing threats to the country's natural resources. While the number of incidents might seem small, the cumulative effect of these events over time has led to substantial environmental changes.

The data reflects a concerning trend that requires attention and action to ensure the sustainability of Benin's natural environment. The loss of tree cover is a complex issue that involves various socio-economic factors, including the need for agricultural land. However, the long-term consequences of continued deforestation could be detrimental to the country's ecological balance and the well-being of its inhabitants.

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