Ghana has faced a significant challenge in maintaining its tree cover, with a net loss of 572,797 hectares over the past two decades, marking a 5.10% decrease in tree cover. This loss has been primarily driven by shifting agriculture, which accounts for the vast majority of tree cover loss and associated carbon emissions. The latest incident in the Northern Region of Ghana, where a fire alert was recorded on December 20, 2024, is a stark reminder of the ongoing threats to the country's forests and natural resources.
The data reveals a fluctuating yet persistent pattern of tree cover loss, with the highest recorded loss in 2018 at over 151,000 hectares. Urbanization, while contributing to a lesser extent, has also been a consistent driver of tree cover loss. The cumulative impact of these losses is not only a concern for biodiversity and habitat conservation but also for climate change mitigation efforts, as the lost tree cover represents significant carbon emissions.
Explore country profileDespite some gains in tree cover, the overall trend points to a disturbing loss, with the stable tree cover area being overshadowed by the areas of disturbance and net loss. The recent fire incident, although isolated, is a reminder of the vulnerability of Ghana's forests to both human and natural threats. The country's efforts to reverse this trend will be crucial in preserving its remaining forests for future generations.
