From 2001 to 2022, Peru experienced a total tree cover loss of over 3.50 million hectares, with shifting agriculture accounting for a significant percentage of this loss. The impact of this loss is not just limited to the reduction of tree cover but also to the considerable CO2e gross emissions associated with it.
Wildfires, although not the leading cause, have also been a persistent issue, with incidents occurring annually and contributing to both tree cover loss and CO2e emissions. Urbanization and forestry activities have had a smaller, yet still notable, impact on tree cover loss.
Peru's net change in tree cover further emphasizes the severity of the situation. The country has seen a net loss of over 762,000 hectares, which represents a negative change of approximately 0.97%. While there has been some gain in tree cover, it does not offset the significant losses and disturbances experienced over the years.
The incident in Huanuco is a stark reminder of the ongoing environmental challenges Peru faces. The cumulative effect of these losses has profound implications for biodiversity, climate change, and the well-being of local communities. As the country grapples with these issues, the need for sustainable land management and conservation efforts becomes increasingly apparent.
