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18 Oct 2024

Mozambique Battles Escalating Tree Cover Loss, Latest Fire Incident in Maputo Province
Mozambique Battles Escalating Tree Cover Loss, Latest Fire Incident in Maputo Province

Mozambique has witnessed a significant escalation in tree cover loss over the past two decades, with shifting agriculture being the predominant driver. The country, which boasts an area of over 78 million hectares, has seen its tree cover extent reduced by 10.21% due to various factors. The latest incident reported on October 18, 2024, was a fire alert in the Maputo Province, underscoring the ongoing environmental challenges the nation faces.

An analysis of historical data reveals that shifting agriculture accounts for the majority of tree cover loss, with a staggering 98% contribution to the total loss each year. Urbanization, although significantly less impactful, has also contributed to the decline. The loss of tree cover has not only affected the landscape but has also resulted in substantial CO2 emissions, with millions of metric tons released into the atmosphere annually.

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The net change in tree cover over the years has been negative, with a loss of over 4.80 million hectares, only partially offset by gains of approximately 583,000 hectares. This has resulted in a net loss of over 4.30 million hectares, indicating a clear need for attention to forest conservation and management practices in Mozambique.

The recent fire incident in Maputo Province is a stark reminder of the environmental incidents that can exacerbate the loss of tree cover. While the direct cause of the fire is not specified, it adds to the cumulative impact on the country's natural resources. The trend of tree cover loss, if continued, could have severe implications for the country's biodiversity, climate, and local communities.

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