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11 Jan 2025

Brazil Battles with Shifting Agriculture and Wildfires, Tree Cover in Peril
Brazil Battles with Shifting Agriculture and Wildfires, Tree Cover in Peril

Brazil, a country with an expansive area of over 850 million hectares, is facing a significant challenge with its tree cover. Despite a tree cover extent of approximately 519 million hectares, the nation has experienced a disturbing trend of tree cover loss over the years. Analysis of historical data reveals that shifting agriculture is the predominant driver, contributing to a substantial portion of the total tree cover loss.

From 2001 to 2023, Brazil saw a net loss in tree cover of over 28 million hectares, which is a 5.93% decrease from its original cover. This loss is a consequence of various factors, with shifting agriculture accounting for a significant percentage of the deforestation. In 2023 alone, shifting agriculture was responsible for over 34% of the tree cover loss. Forestry activities and urbanization also play a role, but to a lesser extent.

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The impact of wildfires, though relatively small in comparison to other drivers, is nonetheless concerning. Wildfires have been persistent throughout the years, with incidents occurring in regions such as the State of Roraima. The latest incident on January 11, 2025, serves as a reminder of the ongoing threat these fires pose to Brazil's forests.

The cumulative effect of these drivers has not only reduced the tree cover but has also led to significant emissions of carbon dioxide equivalents, exacerbating the global climate crisis. Brazil's struggle with tree cover loss is a complex issue that requires attention and action to preserve its remaining forests and combat the adverse effects on the environment.

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