Brazil has been grappling with a significant challenge in tree cover loss over the past two decades. The latest incidents reported on October 16, 2024, in the State of Mato Grosso, underscore an ongoing struggle against environmental degradation. Despite covering an area of over 850 million hectares, Brazil has experienced a net tree cover loss of approximately 28 million hectares, which translates to a 5.93% decrease in tree cover since records began.
The primary drivers of this loss have been identified as shifting agriculture, responsible for a substantial portion of the tree cover decline, and forestry activities. Urbanization and wildfires, although contributing less to the overall loss, still pose significant threats to Brazil's lush landscapes. Notably, the incidents of wildfires have been persistent, with recent alerts in Mato Grosso highlighting the continuous risk to the region's biodiversity and ecological balance.
Explore country profileThe data reveals a concerning trend where the gains in tree cover are vastly overshadowed by the losses, indicating a pressing need for sustainable management and conservation efforts. As the world's eyes turn to Brazil, a global biodiversity hotspot, the country's approach to addressing these environmental challenges remains critical for the health of our planet.
