Fiji's forest cover loss peaked dramatically in 2016, with over 8,372 hectares affected, and has since shown fluctuations. Despite some gains in tree cover, the overall trend points to a persistent loss, with the most recent data from 2022 indicating a loss of 989 hectares. This trend has significant implications for the local environment and biodiversity, as well as for the global fight against climate change, given the role of forests in carbon sequestration.
The incidents in the Western Division are a stark reminder of the fragility of Fiji's natural habitats. As the country grapples with these environmental challenges, the focus on sustainable land use and forest management becomes increasingly critical.