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21 Aug 2024

South Africa Grapples with Tree Cover Loss and Wildfires in Eastern Cape
South Africa Grapples with Tree Cover Loss and Wildfires in Eastern Cape

South Africa, a country with an area of over 121 million hectares, has experienced substantial environmental changes over the past two decades. The tree cover extent, which stands at nearly 6 million hectares, has been subject to various pressures, leading to significant tree cover loss.

Analysis of historical data reveals that the main drivers of tree cover loss in South Africa have been forestry and shifting agriculture, contributing to the majority of the loss over the years. Wildfires and urbanization have also played a role, though to a lesser extent. From 2001 to 2022, the country saw a net decrease in tree cover of approximately 141,776 hectares, which represents a change of -1.86%.

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The latest incident from August 2024 indicates a wildfire in the Eastern Cape region, adding to the country's environmental challenges. While the number of incidents has varied annually, the overall trend points to a persistent issue with tree cover loss.

The impact on the environment is significant, with the loss of tree cover not only affecting biodiversity and habitats but also contributing to greenhouse gas emissions. The total CO2 equivalent gross emissions from tree cover loss over the analyzed period amount to millions of megagrams, with forestry and shifting agriculture being the largest contributors.

This ongoing loss of tree cover highlights the need for sustainable land management practices and effective measures to prevent and control wildfires. The environmental health of South Africa hinges on addressing these challenges, ensuring the preservation and restoration of its natural landscapes.

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