An initiative powered by
Alwaleed Philanthropies.
0
%
18 Dec 2024

Benin Battles Tree Cover Loss Amidst Rising Agricultural Shifts
Benin Battles Tree Cover Loss Amidst Rising Agricultural Shifts

In the West African nation of Benin, a concerning trend of tree cover loss has been observed, with significant environmental implications. Over the past two decades, the country has experienced a net loss of 358,091 hectares of tree cover, which equates to a 7.12% decrease in its total tree cover. This decline is primarily driven by shifting agriculture practices, which alone accounted for a substantial portion of the tree cover loss.

The data indicates that urbanization also played a minor role in this trend, although to a much lesser extent than agriculture. The cumulative impact of these activities has not only reduced the tree cover but also resulted in considerable gross emissions of CO2 equivalent, further contributing to climate change concerns.

Explore country profile

The most recent incident in the Alibori Department underscores the ongoing challenges Benin faces. On December 18, 2024, a fire alert was recorded, highlighting the persistent threat of wildfires to the remaining tree cover. Although the number of incidents was minimal, the potential for escalation remains a concern, given the broader context of environmental degradation.

As Benin continues to grapple with these environmental issues, the data serves as a crucial reminder of the delicate balance between land use for agricultural purposes and the preservation of natural ecosystems.

View all history
A global action, for a global challenge.
Our mission to equip you with the information you need to rally local communities for environmental change. Register your information to receive updates for your area.
Get Customized Deforestation Report.