Central African Republic Grapples with Tree Cover Loss and Fire Incidents

Central African Republic Grapples with Tree Cover Loss and Fire Incidents

In the Central African Republic, a concerning trend of tree cover loss has been observed, with significant environmental impacts. Over the years, the country has seen a fluctuating pattern of tree cover loss, primarily driven by shifting agriculture, which is responsible for the majority of the loss. Notably, the total area of tree cover loss from 2001 to 2023 amounts to over 1.20 million hectares, which is approximately 2% of the country's total tree cover extent of 47 million hectares.

This loss has not only affected the landscape but also contributed to substantial carbon emissions. The data indicates that the emissions associated with tree cover loss have been considerable, with shifting agriculture being the leading cause. The impact of forestry and wildfires on tree cover loss and emissions is relatively minor in comparison.