Peru is facing an escalating challenge with tree cover loss and wildfires, particularly in the San Martin region. Over the past two decades, the country has experienced significant fluctuations in tree cover loss due to various drivers, with shifting agriculture being the predominant cause. The data reveals a concerning trend, with tree cover loss peaking at 303,280 hectares in 2017, which is a stark contrast to the 86,013 hectares lost in 2001.
Shifting agriculture accounted for the majority of this loss, contributing to an alarming 81% of the total deforestation in 2017. Wildfires, while less significant in terms of area, have been a persistent issue, with incidents continuing to occur, including a recent alert in San Martin. The cumulative effect of these losses is substantial, with a net negative change in tree cover of approximately 762,198 hectares when accounting for gains from reforestation efforts.
Explore country profileThe loss of tree cover has not only ecological consequences but also a significant carbon footprint. The total CO2 equivalent gross emissions from tree cover loss have reached staggering figures, with the highest recorded at over 185 million metric tons in 2017. The net change in tree cover indicates a negative trend, with a 0.97% decrease, highlighting the urgency for strategies to mitigate these losses and preserve Peru's vital forest ecosystems.
