In a concerning trend, the United States has experienced a significant increase in tree cover loss over the past two decades, with forestry activities and wildfires being the primary drivers. Analysis of historical data reveals that the total tree cover loss in the U.S. has reached over 22 million hectares, with forestry accounting for the majority of this loss. Wildfires have also played a substantial role, contributing to millions of hectares of lost tree cover.
The impact on the country's tree cover is notable, with a net loss of approximately 3.50 million hectares, indicating a decrease of around 1.23% in tree cover. This loss not only affects the biodiversity and ecological balance but also has implications for carbon emissions, as forests act as significant carbon sinks.
Explore country profileThe latest incident report from Hawaii underscores the ongoing challenge, with a recent fire alert adding to the growing list of wildfire incidents. As the United States grapples with these environmental setbacks, the focus on sustainable forestry practices and wildfire management becomes increasingly critical.
