Mali, a country with over 125 million hectares of land, is facing significant environmental challenges as indicated by recent data on tree cover loss. Despite a tree cover extent of approximately 25,098 hectares, Mali has experienced a net loss of 459,694 hectares over the years, which accounts for a 3.28% decrease in tree cover. This loss is primarily driven by shifting agriculture, which has been responsible for the majority of the tree cover loss.
The latest incident in the Kayes Region, where a fire alert was reported on December 17, 2024, adds to the environmental concerns. Although the report indicates only one incident, the cumulative effect of such events over time can be detrimental to the region's ecosystem. The data over the years shows a fluctuating but persistent pattern of tree cover loss, with the highest loss recorded in 2013 at over 409 hectares.
Explore country profileThe impact of these environmental changes is profound, as tree cover plays a crucial role in carbon sequestration, climate regulation, and supporting biodiversity. The net change in tree cover in Mali reveals a disturbing trend, with a net loss that underscores the need for sustainable land management practices to reverse the negative environmental trajectory.
