Bolivia's rich forest ecosystems are under increasing strain, with recent data revealing a concerning trend of tree cover loss. Over the years, the country has seen a significant reduction in its forested areas, primarily due to shifting agriculture practices and wildfires. Bolivia, with an area of over 108 million hectares, has a tree cover extent of approximately 64.50 million hectares. However, the country has experienced a net loss of over 3.90 million hectares of tree cover, which is a net change of -5.61%.
Shifting agriculture remains the most significant driver of this loss, accounting for a substantial portion of the deforestation. The impact of wildfires, although less than that of agriculture, is still notable and contributes to the degradation of Bolivia's forests. The latest incident from Santa Cruz Department, Bolivia, where a fire alert was registered, underscores the ongoing threat that wildfires pose to the region's biodiversity and environmental health.
Explore country profileThe loss of tree cover not only affects the natural habitats and biodiversity but also has broader implications for climate change, as forests play a crucial role in carbon sequestration. The data indicates a persistent challenge for Bolivia's forests, with the need for sustainable land management and conservation efforts becoming increasingly urgent.
