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22 Jan 2025

Colombia's Forests Face Continued Threats: Shifting Agriculture and Wildfires Lead in Tree Cover Loss
Colombia's Forests Face Continued Threats: Shifting Agriculture and Wildfires Lead in Tree Cover Loss

Colombia's rich biodiversity and extensive forest areas are experiencing significant threats, as recent data indicates a persistent challenge in maintaining the country's tree cover. Over the years, shifting agriculture has consistently been the leading driver of tree cover loss, with wildfires also playing a notable role.

The analysis of historical data reveals that shifting agriculture accounted for the majority of tree cover loss, with percentages reaching as high as 80% of the total loss in certain years. Wildfires, although contributing less than agriculture, still represented a significant cause of deforestation, with urbanization and forestry also contributing to the overall loss.

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The net change in tree cover over the years has been negative, with a 2.20% decrease, indicating that the rate of tree cover loss has outpaced any gains from reforestation or natural regrowth. This trend is concerning, as it suggests a continuous decline in forest health and size, which could have far-reaching implications for Colombia's ecosystem services, including carbon storage, water regulation, and biodiversity conservation.

The latest incident from Caqueta, Colombia, where a fire alert was registered, underscores the ongoing vulnerability of Colombia's forests to wildfires. As the country grapples with these environmental challenges, the focus on sustainable land management and fire prevention strategies becomes increasingly critical to safeguard the future of Colombia's forests.

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