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19 Oct 2024

Russia's Forests Under Threat: Wildfires Lead to Significant Tree Cover Loss
Russia's Forests Under Threat: Wildfires Lead to Significant Tree Cover Loss

Russia has experienced a substantial decline in tree cover over the past two decades, with wildfires being a significant driver of this loss. The country's vast forested area, which spans over 1.68 billion hectares, has seen a net change in tree cover of approximately -0.02%. This seemingly small percentage equates to a net loss of around 176,089 hectares, a clear indication of the environmental challenges facing Russia's forests.

The historical data reveals that the total tree cover loss in Russia has been increasing, with the most significant losses occurring in years with high wildfire activity. For instance, in 2022, wildfires accounted for over 73% of the total tree cover loss, which amounted to approximately 4.29 million hectares. This trend is consistent with previous years, where wildfires have consistently been the leading cause of tree cover loss.

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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.

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