Botswana has faced a recent fire incident in the Kgalagadi District, reflecting a broader trend of environmental challenges in the country. Over the past two decades, Botswana has experienced a net loss in tree cover, with a total decrease of approximately 0.71%. Shifting agriculture has been identified as a significant driver of this loss, contributing to both the reduction in tree cover and associated emissions of greenhouse gases.
The data reveals a fluctuating pattern of tree cover loss, with some years witnessing higher rates than others. However, the overall trajectory indicates a gradual decline in tree cover. The impact of these losses extends beyond the immediate environmental effects, potentially affecting the region's biodiversity, climate, and local communities.
Explore country profileBotswana's tree cover extent, which spans over 20,000 hectares, represents a small fraction of its total land area, emphasizing the importance of preserving this critical resource. The recent fire alert serves as a reminder of the ongoing threats to Botswana's natural landscape and the need for continued vigilance and sustainable land management practices to mitigate further loss.
