The net change in tree cover over the years has been negative, with a net loss of 738,330.73 hectares, which represents a 3.61% decrease from the stable tree cover. This loss is juxtaposed against a backdrop of efforts to gain tree cover, which amounted to 403,581.93 hectares, but it has not been enough to offset the losses.
The environmental impact of these trends is considerable, as the total CO2e gross emissions from tree cover loss have been substantial. For instance, in 2001, the total CO2e gross emissions were approximately 5.29 million megagrams, and by 2022, this figure had more than doubled to approximately 11.74 million megagrams.
The latest fire incident in Oromia serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing environmental struggles Ethiopia faces. The data underscores the need for continued vigilance and action to mitigate tree cover loss and its associated impacts on the environment and local communities.
