Madagascar has witnessed a significant decline in its tree cover over the past two decades, with recent data indicating a persistent challenge in managing land use and natural disasters. The island nation, known for its unique biodiversity, has experienced a net loss of over 1 million hectares of tree cover, which equates to a 5.89% decrease from its original extent. Shifting agriculture remains the predominant driver of this loss, responsible for the vast majority of the deforestation, followed by wildfires and urbanization.
The latest incident from Alaotra-Mangoro, Madagascar, reported on January 10, 2025, adds to the growing concerns over the country's ability to safeguard its forests against recurring fires. The trend of tree cover loss has not only diminished the country's rich ecosystems but also contributed to significant carbon emissions, further exacerbating the global climate crisis.
Explore country profileThe net change in tree cover reveals a complex scenario where the loss heavily outweighs the gains, indicating a dire need for effective conservation strategies. As Madagascar continues to grapple with these environmental challenges, the focus on sustainable land management and disaster mitigation becomes increasingly critical to preserve the island's natural heritage for future generations.
