In a concerning environmental development, Madagascar has experienced a significant tree cover loss over the past two decades, with recent data indicating a net decrease of 5.89% in tree cover. The island nation, known for its unique biodiversity, has seen a consistent pattern of deforestation, primarily driven by shifting agriculture, which accounts for the vast majority of tree cover loss. The impact of this loss is profound, considering Madagascar's total area of approximately 59 million hectares, with tree cover originally extending over 17 million hectares.
The latest incident in Amoron'i Mania region, where a fire alert was recorded on November 8, 2024, adds to the ongoing environmental challenges faced by the country. Although the number of incidents is relatively low, the cumulative effect of these events, combined with other drivers of deforestation such as forestry and wildfires, has contributed to the significant net loss of tree cover.
Explore country profileMadagascar's struggle with deforestation is not a new issue; however, the persistence of this trend underscores the need for a more effective management and conservation strategy to protect the remaining forested areas. The loss of tree cover not only threatens the habitat of countless species but also has broader implications for climate change, as forests play a crucial role in carbon sequestration.
