Forestry activities have also contributed to the decline, although to a lesser extent than wildfires. In 2022, forestry was responsible for around 26% of the total tree cover loss. Shifting agriculture, while having an impact, has been a minor driver in comparison to the other factors.
The latest incident data from 2024 shows a fire alert in Zabaykalsky Krai, Russia, indicating that the threat of wildfires to Russia's forests persists. This single incident reflects a broader pattern of environmental stress on the country's vast tree cover.
The ongoing loss of tree cover in Russia not only impacts the local ecosystems but also has broader implications for global climate regulation and biodiversity. The country's forests play a crucial role in carbon sequestration, and their degradation could have far-reaching effects on the global fight against climate change.
