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9 Aug 2024

Turkey Battles Rising Tree Cover Loss with a Single Fire Incident in Muş
Turkey Battles Rising Tree Cover Loss with a Single Fire Incident in Muş

Turkey has been grappling with significant tree cover loss over the past two decades, with the latest incident being a fire alert in the region of Muş on August 9, 2024. The country, which spans over 78 million hectares, has a tree cover extent of approximately 12.90%. However, this green asset has been under threat, with a net loss of 385,030 hectares and a net gain of 473,796 hectares, resulting in a modest net positive change of 0.65%.

The drivers of tree cover loss have been varied, with forestry activities accounting for the most significant portion. In 2021, for instance, forestry was responsible for the loss of 66,740 hectares, which is a staggering 84% of the total loss for that year. Shifting agriculture also plays a role but to a lesser extent, contributing to 7,849 hectares of loss in the same year.

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Urbanization has had a relatively smaller impact, with losses ranging from 66 to 528 hectares annually. The data does not specify the impact of wildfires on tree cover loss, but the latest fire incident in Muş is a stark reminder of the potential threat they pose to Turkey's forests.

The overall trend shows a fluctuating pattern of tree cover loss and gain, with some years like 2020 and 2021 witnessing higher rates of loss. The country's tree cover has experienced a disturbance of over half a million hectares, emphasizing the need for continued vigilance and conservation efforts to protect these vital ecosystems.

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