Over the years, forestry activities and wildfires have also contributed to tree cover loss, although to a much lesser extent compared to shifting agriculture. Urbanization, while not quantified in the available data, remains a potential factor in land cover change. The cumulative effect of these drivers has not only led to significant tree cover loss but also to substantial CO2 emissions, exacerbating the global challenge of climate change.
Madagascar's situation is a microcosm of the broader global issue of deforestation and its repercussions on biodiversity, climate, and local communities. The data prompts a critical examination of land use practices and the need for sustainable solutions to preserve Madagascar's unique and diverse ecosystems for future generations.