Mali has recently faced a new fire incident in the Gao Region, reflecting an ongoing environmental challenge for the country. Over the past two decades, Mali has experienced significant tree cover loss, primarily due to shifting agriculture. The country's total area spans over 125 million hectares, with a tree cover extent of approximately 25,098 hectares. However, the net change in tree cover has been negative, with a loss of around 459,694 hectares and a gain of only about 203,580 hectares, leading to a net loss of 256,113 hectares. This represents a 3.28% decrease in tree cover, indicating a substantial impact on Mali's natural resources.
The latest fire incident, recorded on October 17, 2024, adds to the environmental pressures Mali is facing. The historical data shows that shifting agriculture has been the predominant driver of tree cover loss, accounting for the vast majority of the total loss over the years. The cumulative effect of these losses has contributed to a significant release of carbon emissions, further exacerbating the environmental impact.
Explore country profileMali's struggle with tree cover loss highlights the broader issue of land use change and its implications for environmental sustainability. The ongoing incidents and trends underscore the need for comprehensive strategies to manage and mitigate the loss of natural habitats and the resulting carbon emissions.
