Colombia's rich biodiversity is under persistent threat as data reveals a continued loss of tree cover across the nation. Over the past two decades, the country has experienced a significant reduction in its forested areas, with shifting agriculture being the primary driver of this decline. The figures are stark: shifting agriculture alone accounts for a substantial percentage of the total tree cover loss, followed by other factors such as forestry, wildfires, and urbanization.
The impact on Colombia's environment is profound. The loss of tree cover not only threatens the habitat of countless species but also exacerbates climate change due to the release of carbon emissions associated with deforestation. While there have been gains in tree cover in some areas, these have not been sufficient to offset the losses. The net change in tree cover shows a disturbing trend, with a net loss that underscores the urgent need for sustainable land management practices.
Explore country profileThe latest incident from Caqueta, Colombia, where a fire alert was registered, is a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by the country's forests. As the global community continues to grapple with environmental conservation, the situation in Colombia serves as a call to action to protect these vital ecosystems for future generations.
