Zambia has witnessed a significant decline in its tree cover over the past two decades, primarily due to shifting agriculture practices and wildfires. The country, which boasts an area of over 75 million hectares, has seen its tree cover extent reduced by approximately 7.30%. Shifting agriculture remains the predominant driver of tree cover loss, accounting for a staggering majority of the deforestation. Wildfires, while less significant in comparison, still contribute to the ongoing environmental challenge.
The impact of these activities is not only limited to the loss of tree cover but also to the substantial emissions of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Urbanization, although responsible for a smaller fraction of the loss, is an additional factor in the changing landscape of Zambia's natural forests. The latest incident reported in the Northwestern Province of Zambia, with a single fire alert, underscores the persistent threat of wildfires in the region.
Explore country profileThe net change in tree cover over the years has been negative, with losses far outpacing gains. The data indicates a net loss of over 2.80 million hectares, which is a clear signal of the urgent need for sustainable land management practices to mitigate these losses. The ongoing deforestation trend poses a serious threat to Zambia's biodiversity, climate, and the well-being of its inhabitants.
