Mexico has faced significant challenges in preserving its forests, with data revealing a concerning trend of tree cover loss over the years. Spanning an area of 195 million hectares, Mexico's forests are a critical part of its natural heritage. However, the country has experienced a net loss in tree cover, with a decrease of approximately 1.25%.
The primary driver of this deforestation has been shifting agriculture, accounting for a substantial portion of the tree cover loss. Forestry activities, wildfires, and urbanization also contribute to the diminishing forests. Wildfires, in particular, have been a persistent issue, with recent incidents such as the one in Tabasco highlighting the ongoing struggle against fires in the region.
Explore country profileOver the years, the loss has been somewhat mitigated by gains in tree cover, but the net change remains negative. The disturbances to Mexico's tree cover have significant implications for biodiversity, climate change, and the livelihoods of local communities. As the country grapples with these environmental challenges, the focus on sustainable practices and forest conservation becomes increasingly important.
