Canada's vast forested landscapes are facing a critical challenge as incidents of wildfires and deforestation continue to rise. Recent data indicates a single fire alert in Saskatchewan, signaling a persistent threat to the country's tree cover. Over the years, wildfires have emerged as a significant driver of tree cover loss, with a notable increase in the hectares affected. The cumulative impact of these incidents, alongside other factors such as forestry and urbanization, has led to a net loss in tree cover, which now stands at a concerning 2.76% decrease.
The analysis of historical data paints a stark picture of the situation. Since 2001, the forestry sector has been a major contributor to tree cover loss, with wildfires closely following. In 2022 alone, wildfires accounted for over 55% of the total tree cover loss, a clear indication of their growing influence on the country's carbon emissions and ecological integrity. Urbanization, although contributing to a lesser extent, also plays a role in the changing landscape.
Explore country profileThe net change in tree cover reveals a loss of over 25 million hectares, only partially offset by gains of approximately 17 million hectares. This imbalance has resulted in a net negative change, with disturbances further exacerbating the situation. The resilience of Canada's forests is being tested, and the continued loss of tree cover could have profound implications for biodiversity, climate regulation, and the well-being of future generations.
