In a concerning development for Turkey's natural landscape, a recent incident on August 16, 2024, saw a fire outbreak in the region of İzmir. This event is a stark reminder of the environmental challenges facing the country's forests, which cover over 10 million hectares. Over the past two decades, Turkey has experienced significant tree cover loss, with the highest recorded in 2021 at approximately 79,284 hectares. The loss is primarily attributed to forestry activities, which contributed to over 80% of the total deforestation, and shifting agriculture, accounting for a smaller yet significant portion.
Despite these losses, there has been a net gain in tree cover of 88,766 hectares, indicating some recovery. However, the persistent threat of fires and deforestation activities casts a shadow over these regenerative efforts. The latest incident in İzmir is a reminder of the fragility of Turkey's forests and the need for continued vigilance and sustainable management to protect these vital ecosystems.
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