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18 Jan 2025

Venezuela Grapples with Environmental Impact as Tree Cover Loss Persists
Venezuela Grapples with Environmental Impact as Tree Cover Loss Persists

Venezuela has faced significant environmental challenges, with a consistent trend of tree cover loss over the years. The country, which boasts an area of over 91 million hectares, has seen its tree cover extent reduced to approximately 56.50 million hectares. Notably, shifting agriculture has been the predominant driver of this loss, accounting for a substantial portion of the total deforestation.

A closer examination of the data reveals that the highest recorded tree cover loss in a single year was in 2016, with over 207,000 hectares affected. This trend, however, is not isolated to that year alone; it reflects a broader pattern of environmental degradation. Over the years, other factors such as forestry, wildfires, and urbanization have also contributed to the decline in tree cover.

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The impact of these losses is significant, as they have led to a net negative change in tree cover. Despite some gains, the overall loss has resulted in a net decrease of approximately 1.37 million hectares, which is a 2.49% change from the stable tree cover.

The latest incident from January 18, 2025, in the Guárico region, adds to the ongoing environmental concerns. Although it accounts for a single fire alert, it underscores the persistent threat of wildfires to Venezuela's forests and ecosystems.

The country's environmental trajectory raises concerns about the sustainability of its natural resources and the long-term implications for biodiversity, climate regulation, and the well-being of its inhabitants.

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