Wildfires have been a significant driver of this loss, with the most devastating years being 2019 and 2020, where wildfires contributed to over 1.30 million hectares and 1.95 million hectares of tree cover loss, respectively. These events not only stripped the land of its tree cover but also resulted in massive carbon emissions, further exacerbating the impact on the climate.
The trend of tree cover loss has been alarming, with the highest recorded loss in 2020, amounting to over 2.35 million hectares. Although there has been some gain in tree cover, it has not been sufficient to offset the losses, leading to a net negative impact on Australia's forest landscape.
The data paints a concerning picture of Australia's environmental health and highlights the need for increased attention to forest management and wildfire prevention strategies. As the country grapples with these challenges, the focus turns to mitigating the effects of these incidents and fostering a more sustainable interaction with the natural environment.
