An initiative powered by
Alwaleed Philanthropies.
0
%
10 Jan 2025

Guatemala Grapples with Escalating Tree Cover Loss and Single Fire Incident
Guatemala Grapples with Escalating Tree Cover Loss and Single Fire Incident

Guatemala has experienced a significant tree cover loss over the years, with a net decrease of 6.04% in tree cover, which translates to a loss of approximately 760,664 hectares. The country's tree cover extent, initially at 7,693,456 hectares, has been impacted by various drivers, with shifting agriculture being the predominant cause. This practice alone has accounted for a substantial portion of the tree cover loss, followed by forestry activities and urbanization.

The latest incident data from Guatemala indicates a single fire alert in the Suchitepéquez Department as of January 10, 2025. While this incident may seem isolated, it is part of a broader trend of environmental challenges facing the nation. Over the years, the cumulative effect of tree cover loss has been profound, with the highest annual loss recorded in 2016, amounting to over 178,396 hectares.

Explore country profile

The impact of these losses is not only ecological but also has significant implications for carbon emissions. The total gross emissions from tree cover loss have reached alarming levels, with the highest emissions recorded in the same year as the peak of tree cover loss.

As Guatemala continues to face these environmental challenges, the single fire incident serves as a reminder of the country's vulnerability to such events and the importance of sustainable land management practices to mitigate further tree cover loss and its associated consequences.

View all history
A global action, for a global challenge.
Our mission to equip you with the information you need to rally local communities for environmental change. Register your information to receive updates for your area.
Get Customized Deforestation Report.