Argentina faces significant environmental concerns as recent data reveals a persistent increase in tree cover loss over the past two decades. The country, which boasts an area of over 278 million hectares, has experienced a net loss of approximately 3.56 million hectares of tree cover, marking a 10.45% change in its forest landscape. The primary drivers of this deforestation include shifting agriculture, responsible for the largest portion of tree cover loss, followed by forestry activities. Wildfires and urbanization also contribute to the decline, albeit to a lesser extent.
The latest incident from Formosa Province underscores the ongoing struggle with environmental degradation. On August 17, 2024, a fire alert was registered, adding to the country's challenges in managing its natural resources. Over the years, the impact of these losses has been profound, with millions of metric tons of CO2 equivalent emissions released into the atmosphere, exacerbating climate change concerns.
Explore country profileThe data paints a concerning picture of Argentina's environmental health, with the loss of tree cover not only affecting biodiversity and ecosystems but also the livelihoods of communities dependent on these forests. The trend highlights the urgent need for sustainable land management practices to mitigate further damage and preserve Argentina's rich natural heritage for future generations.
