Botswana faced a new challenge on August 16, 2024, with a fire alert reported in the Ghanzi District, an incident occurring against a backdrop of a gradual decline in the country's tree cover. Over the past two decades, Botswana has experienced a net loss of tree cover, which now stands at a decrease of approximately 0.71%. While the total area of tree cover extends to roughly 20,328 hectares, the country has seen a loss of about 14,571 hectares, with a modest gain of 13,303 hectares attempting to offset this decline.
The predominant driver of tree cover loss has been identified as shifting agriculture, contributing to both the physical loss of trees and associated CO2 emissions. However, the data indicates a significant decrease in the rate of tree cover loss over the years, suggesting a potential shift towards more sustainable land management practices. The recent fire incident, while isolated, highlights the ongoing environmental challenges that Botswana faces, including the need for vigilant monitoring and response strategies to protect its natural landscape.
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