In a concerning environmental development, Argentina has experienced a significant escalation in tree cover loss over the past two decades. The country, which boasts an area of over 278 million hectares, has seen a net decrease in tree cover of approximately 10.45%. This loss is not only a blow to biodiversity but also to carbon sequestration efforts, as trees play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
The drivers behind this deforestation include shifting agriculture, which accounts for a substantial portion of the tree cover loss, and forestry activities. Wildfires and urbanization, while contributing to a lesser extent, still add to the overall decline. The most recent incident in Formosa Province, where a fire alert was recorded on August 16, 2024, underscores the ongoing challenges the country faces in managing its natural resources.
Explore country profileThe data reveals a troubling trend, with over 4.66 million hectares of tree cover lost, which is only partially offset by a gain of approximately 1.11 million hectares. The disturbances affecting the remaining tree cover further exacerbate the situation. As Argentina grapples with these environmental hurdles, the focus on sustainable land management and conservation becomes increasingly critical to reverse the negative trends and safeguard the future of the country's forests.
