From 2001 to 2022, wildfires have been responsible for the majority of tree cover loss, with a staggering increase in both the area affected and the associated carbon emissions. Notably, the years 2019 and 2020 saw unprecedented levels of tree cover loss due to wildfires, with over 1.60 million hectares and 2.30 million hectares lost, respectively.
Forestry practices have also contributed significantly to the decline, with over 575,000 hectares affected in 2022 alone. Urbanization and shifting agriculture combined have resulted in tens of thousands of hectares of tree cover loss annually.
The data underscores the urgent need for strategies to mitigate these losses and protect Australia's rich biodiversity and natural resources. As the country continues to combat wildfires and address the drivers of tree cover loss, the importance of sustainable practices and environmental stewardship becomes increasingly clear.
