Côte d'Ivoire has experienced a significant decline in tree cover over the past two decades. Analysis of historical data reveals that the nation has faced a net loss of approximately 1.65 million hectares of tree cover, marking a 6.94% decrease in its forested area. The primary driver of this deforestation has been shifting agriculture, responsible for the vast majority of tree cover loss. Urbanization, forestry, and wildfires have also contributed to the decline, albeit to a lesser extent.
The most recent incident in Nzérékoré, Guinea, underscores the ongoing challenge of wildfires in the region. Although the number of incidents has been relatively low, the impact on the environment and emissions is non-negligible. The cumulative effect of these losses is substantial, with millions of metric tons of CO2 equivalent emissions released into the atmosphere, exacerbating the global climate crisis.
Explore country profileCôte d'Ivoire's struggle with deforestation is a microcosm of a larger global issue, highlighting the need for sustainable land management practices and the protection of natural resources. The country's experience serves as a call to action for nations worldwide to address the root causes of deforestation and invest in the preservation of our planet's vital green cover.
