In a concerning development, Benin has recorded a new fire incident in the Atakora Department, highlighting ongoing environmental challenges. Over the past two decades, Benin has experienced significant changes in its tree cover. The country, with an area of over 11.50 million hectares, has a tree cover extent of approximately 168,568 hectares. However, the net change in tree cover has been negative, with a loss of around 539,500 hectares and a gain of about 181,400 hectares, resulting in a net loss of 358,091 hectares, which is a 7.12% decrease from the stable tree cover.
The primary driver of tree cover loss has been identified as shifting agriculture, accounting for the vast majority of the loss over the years. Urbanization, though a smaller factor, has also contributed to the decline. The total tree cover loss has not only affected the landscape but has also led to significant CO2 emissions, with millions of metric grams released into the atmosphere annually due to these activities.
Explore country profileThe latest fire incident, although isolated, serves as a reminder of the persistent risks to Benin's natural environment. The cumulative impact of these incidents and tree cover loss over the years underscores the need for continued attention to sustainable land management practices to preserve the remaining tree cover and mitigate further environmental degradation.
