In the face of ongoing environmental challenges, Paraguay has experienced a significant decline in tree cover over the past two decades. Data reveals that the country has seen a net loss of 5,810,873 hectares of tree cover, which constitutes a 24.70% decrease from its original extent. This loss is primarily attributed to shifting agriculture, responsible for the majority of the tree cover loss, followed by forestry activities, wildfires, and urbanization.
The most recent incident in Presidente Hayes Department underscores the persistent threat of wildfires to Paraguay's forests. On August 9, 2024, a fire alert was registered in the region, adding to the country's environmental woes. Over the years, wildfires have contributed to both the loss of tree cover and the release of carbon emissions into the atmosphere, further exacerbating the impact of deforestation.
Explore country profileThe trend of tree cover loss in Paraguay is concerning, with the highest recorded loss in 2012, amounting to over 510,000 hectares. While there has been some gain in tree cover, it is minimal compared to the losses, and disturbances continue to threaten the remaining forested areas. The ongoing loss of tree cover not only affects biodiversity and habitat but also has implications for carbon storage and the overall health of the ecosystem.
