In a recent development, South Africa has recorded a single fire incident in the Mpumalanga region, highlighting the ongoing challenges the country faces with tree cover loss. Over the past two decades, South Africa has seen a fluctuating but persistent decline in tree cover, with a net change of -1.86% in tree cover extent. This loss equates to a reduction of approximately 141,776 hectares, despite gains of around 388,240 hectares.
The primary drivers of tree cover loss have been identified as forestry activities and shifting agriculture, contributing to the majority of the loss. Wildfires and urbanization also play a role, but to a lesser extent. The year 2017 marked the highest recorded loss within the period, with over 94,000 hectares affected. Conversely, 2022 saw the lowest tree cover loss in years, with approximately 41,000 hectares lost.
Explore country profileThe cumulative effect of these losses has significant implications for the country's biodiversity, water resources, and climate regulation. The recent fire incident in Mpumalanga is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that come with diminished tree cover and the importance of sustainable land management practices to mitigate further losses.
