Forestry activities have been identified as the primary driver of tree cover loss, accounting for a significant percentage of the total. Wildfires, which are often exacerbated by shifting agriculture practices and urbanization, have also contributed to the decline, with thousands of hectares affected annually.
The year 2017 marked a peak in tree cover loss, with over 173,000 hectares lost, which was an alarming figure compared to the preceding years. The trend, however, is not entirely bleak. There have been gains in tree cover as well, although they have not been sufficient to offset the losses.
The recent wildfire in the Porto District is a stark reminder of the ongoing environmental struggles. The cumulative effect of these incidents, combined with the loss of tree cover, poses a significant threat to the country's natural heritage and the stability of its ecosystems.
As Portugal continues to grapple with these environmental challenges, the focus must be on sustainable practices that can help mitigate tree cover loss and prevent future wildfires. The health of Portugal's forests and the biodiversity they support is at stake, making it imperative to address these issues with urgency and commitment.
