Fiji Battles Rising Incidents of Forest Loss and Fires in Western Division

Fiji Battles Rising Incidents of Forest Loss and Fires in Western Division

In a concerning development, Fiji has reported multiple incidents of forest loss and fires, particularly in the Western Division. Over the years, the island nation has faced a significant decline in tree cover, with a net change of -1.83% in tree cover. Notably, the recent fire incidents on July 10, 2024, underscore the ongoing challenges to Fiji's forest ecosystems.

The country's tree cover extent spans over 1,556,559 hectares, which has been under threat from various drivers. Shifting agriculture remains the predominant cause, accounting for a substantial portion of the tree cover loss. Forestry activities also contribute to the degradation of Fiji's forest resources. While wildfires have not been the leading cause, they exacerbate the vulnerability of the forests and the wildlife that depend on them.