South Africa Battles Environmental Challenges as Tree Cover Loss Persists

South Africa Battles Environmental Challenges as Tree Cover Loss Persists

South Africa faces ongoing environmental challenges as recent data reveals a persistent loss of tree cover across the nation. Over the past two decades, the country has experienced a significant reduction in its tree cover, with a net loss of approximately 141,776 hectares, marking a -1.86% change. This loss has been primarily driven by activities such as shifting agriculture and forestry, which together account for the largest proportion of tree cover decline.

The impact of these activities is evident in the total tree cover loss, which has amounted to over half a million hectares in the period under review. Shifting agriculture alone has led to a loss of tens of thousands of hectares each year, contributing significantly to the environmental strain. Forestry activities have also played a substantial role, with an even greater number of hectares lost annually.