Côte d'Ivoire Grapples with Tree Cover Loss and Environmental Impact

Côte d'Ivoire Grapples with Tree Cover Loss and Environmental Impact

Côte d'Ivoire has witnessed a significant environmental challenge over the years, with a net loss of 1.65 million hectares in tree cover, marking a 6.94% decrease. The country, which boasts an area of over 32 million hectares, has seen its tree cover extent reduced to approximately 14.87 million hectares. The primary driver of this loss has been shifting agriculture, accounting for the vast majority of the tree cover loss, followed by urbanization and forestry activities.

The data reveals a concerning trend, with the highest recorded tree cover loss in 2014, amounting to nearly 347,000 hectares. Although there has been a slight decrease in the rate of loss in recent years, the environmental impact remains substantial. In 2022, the country experienced a loss of over 172,000 hectares, with shifting agriculture continuing as the principal cause.