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15 Dec 2024

Ghana Grapples with Tree Cover Loss Amid Recent Fire Incident in Eastern Region
Ghana Grapples with Tree Cover Loss Amid Recent Fire Incident in Eastern Region

Ghana has recently faced a fire incident in its Eastern Region, marking a continuation of environmental challenges for the nation. Over the past two decades, Ghana has experienced significant tree cover loss primarily due to shifting agriculture. This practice alone has been responsible for the vast majority of the tree cover loss, with urbanization contributing a smaller fraction.

The data reveals a concerning trend, with a net loss of tree cover amounting to approximately 572,797 hectares, which represents a 5.09% decrease in tree cover since records began. Notably, the year 2018 saw the highest recorded tree cover loss at over 151,000 hectares, with shifting agriculture once again being the predominant driver.

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While the latest fire alert indicates a single incident, the cumulative effect of these incidents over the years has contributed to the country's environmental degradation. The loss of tree cover not only impacts biodiversity and ecosystems but also has implications for carbon emissions, with millions of metric tons of CO2 equivalent being released into the atmosphere as a result of these losses.

Ghana's struggle with tree cover loss is a stark reminder of the delicate balance between land use for agricultural purposes and the need for environmental conservation. The ongoing challenge is to find sustainable solutions that can support both the livelihoods of local communities and the health of the natural environment.

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