Brazil, a country with a vast expanse of over 850 million hectares, is grappling with a significant decline in its tree cover. Analysis of data spanning two decades reveals a troubling trend, with the nation experiencing a net loss in tree cover of approximately 28 million hectares, marking a 5.93% decrease. The primary driver of this deforestation is shifting agriculture, accounting for substantial tree cover loss and associated emissions. Forestry activities and urbanization also contribute notably to the landscape changes.
The latest incident in this ongoing environmental challenge is a fire alert in the State of Minas Gerais, underscoring the persistent threat of wildfires to Brazil's forests. While the incident count on July 19, 2024, stands at one, the historical data suggests that wildfires, though not the leading cause, have been a consistent factor in the country's tree cover loss over the years.
Explore country profileThe cumulative impact of these incidents and activities is profound, not only on the environment but also on the biodiversity and climate regulation functions that Brazil's forests provide. The data indicates a pressing need for strategies to mitigate tree cover loss and preserve the remaining forested areas for future generations.
