Ecuador has witnessed a significant challenge in preserving its vast tree cover, which spans over 19 million hectares. Over the years, the country has faced a persistent issue with deforestation, primarily due to shifting agriculture, which has been the leading cause of tree cover loss. The data indicates that shifting agriculture alone accounts for a substantial percentage of the total tree cover loss, with other factors such as forestry, wildfires, and urbanization contributing to the overall decline.
The impact of these activities on the environment is evident in the loss of 494,949 hectares of tree cover, which is a concerning figure given the country's total area. Despite some gains in tree cover, the net loss stands at 276,381 hectares, indicating a net change of -1.49% in tree cover over the years. This loss of tree cover not only affects the biodiversity and ecological balance of Ecuador but also has broader implications for climate change and carbon emissions.
Explore country profileRecently, a single fire incident was reported in the region of Loja, Ecuador, adding to the environmental challenges the country faces. While this incident may seem minor in comparison to the historical data, it underscores the ongoing struggle against environmental degradation. The country's rich biodiversity and the importance of its forests in carbon sequestration make it imperative to address these issues with urgency and continued vigilance.
