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9 Dec 2024

Australia Battles Wildfires as Tree Cover Loss Trends Upward
Australia Battles Wildfires as Tree Cover Loss Trends Upward

Australia has witnessed a single wildfire incident in Queensland as of December 9, 2024, adding to the country's environmental challenges. Over the years, Australia has experienced significant tree cover loss, with notable fluctuations in the extent and impact of this loss.

From 2001 to 2022, Australia saw an overall net loss in tree cover of approximately 917,000 hectares, a decrease of about 1.03%. The most substantial drivers of this loss have been wildfires and forestry, contributing to the majority of the tree cover decline. Wildfires alone have been responsible for a staggering amount of tree cover loss, with millions of hectares affected over the two decades.

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The years 2019 and 2020 were particularly devastating, with wildfires causing tree cover loss of approximately 1.32 million hectares and 1.95 million hectares, respectively. These incidents resulted in significant carbon emissions, further exacerbating the impact on the environment.

Urbanization and shifting agriculture have also played a role, though to a lesser extent compared to wildfires and forestry. The data indicates a persistent challenge in maintaining and protecting Australia's tree cover, which is crucial for biodiversity, climate regulation, and the well-being of ecosystems.

The latest incident in Queensland is a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against environmental degradation. As Australia continues to face these challenges, the need for effective management and conservation strategies becomes increasingly apparent.

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