Zambia's natural landscapes are facing significant challenges as recent data indicates a troubling trend in tree cover loss. Over the past two decades, the country has experienced a net loss of 2.87 million hectares of tree cover, which equates to a 7.31% decrease in its total tree cover. The primary driver of this loss is shifting agriculture, responsible for the vast majority of the decline. Urbanization, although less significant, also contributes to the changing landscape.
The latest incident from Muchinga Province, Zambia, reported on November 8, 2024, underscores the ongoing environmental concerns. This single fire alert may seem minor, but it is part of a broader pattern of wildfires that have played a role in the country's tree cover loss over the years. Although wildfires are not the leading cause of deforestation in Zambia, they have consistently contributed to the country's CO2 emissions and the degradation of its natural resources.
Explore country profileThe impact on Zambia's ecosystem is profound, with the country's tree cover extent standing at approximately 24 million hectares. The loss of tree cover not only affects biodiversity and habitats but also has implications for carbon emissions and climate change. As Zambia continues to lose tree cover, the need for sustainable land management practices becomes increasingly critical to preserve the remaining forests and ensure the health of the environment for future generations.
