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17 Nov 2024

Escalating Tree Cover Loss in the Congo Raises Environmental Concerns
Escalating Tree Cover Loss in the Congo Raises Environmental Concerns

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has experienced a significant increase in tree cover loss over the past two decades, with recent data indicating a concerning trend. The country, which boasts a vast area of over 232 million hectares, has seen a net loss of approximately 6 million hectares of tree cover, equating to a 3.55% decrease in its tree cover extent.

Shifting agriculture remains the predominant driver of this deforestation, responsible for the vast majority of tree cover loss. Urbanization, although contributing to a lesser extent, has also been a consistent factor. Notably, incidents of wildfires have been minimal in comparison to other causes, yet they still contribute to the overall decline in tree cover.

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The latest incident report from North-Kivu highlights a single fire alert, underscoring the ongoing challenges the DRC faces in managing its forest resources. The cumulative effect of these losses is not only a concern for the local ecosystem but also has broader implications for global biodiversity and climate regulation.

The DRC's rich biodiversity and expansive forests play a critical role in carbon sequestration, and the loss of such a significant area of tree cover has undoubtedly contributed to the rise in carbon emissions. As the country grapples with these environmental challenges, the data calls for increased attention and action to protect and restore these vital natural resources.

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