Côte d'Ivoire Grapples with Tree Cover Loss Amid Recent Fire Incident

Côte d'Ivoire Grapples with Tree Cover Loss Amid Recent Fire Incident

Côte d'Ivoire has experienced a significant tree cover loss over the years, with a recent incident adding to the concern. The latest fire alert from the Vallée du Bandama District underscores the ongoing environmental challenges the country faces. Over the past two decades, the nation has seen a net change in tree cover characterized by a 6.94% decrease, equating to a loss of over 2.53 million hectares. This loss is juxtaposed against a gain of approximately 881,678 hectares, indicating a persistent struggle to maintain its forested areas.

The primary driver of tree cover loss has been shifting agriculture, contributing to the vast majority of the deforestation. Urbanization, while less significant in comparison, has also played a role in the changing landscape. The data reveals that incidents such as wildfires, although not quantified in the historical data, remain a present threat to the environment, as evidenced by the recent fire alert.