While there has been some gain in tree cover, the net change remains negative, with a net loss of over 900,000 hectares, indicating a decline of more than 1% in tree cover. This loss is a clear signal that the country's forests are under significant stress, and the recurring wildfires only exacerbate the situation.
The drivers of tree cover loss include shifting agriculture, forestry, wildfires, and urbanization. Shifting agriculture and urbanization account for a smaller fraction of the loss, while forestry and wildfires contribute to the majority. The data underscores the urgency for strategies to mitigate tree cover loss and enhance forest resilience against wildfires.
