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25 Jun 2024

Dominican Republic Grapples with a Surge in Tree Cover Loss and Single Fire Incident
Dominican Republic Grapples with a Surge in Tree Cover Loss and Single Fire Incident

The Dominican Republic has experienced a significant increase in tree cover loss, with a recent fire incident reported in Distrito Nacional, highlighting the ongoing environmental challenges the country faces. Over the past two decades, the nation has seen a net loss of 68,152.69 hectares in tree cover, which represents a 2.54% decrease from the stable tree cover area.

Shifting agriculture remains the predominant driver of this loss, accounting for a staggering 90% of the total deforestation. This practice alone has led to the loss of over 100,000 hectares of trees annually, on average, since 2001. Urbanization also contributes to the problem, though to a lesser extent, with a consistent increase in tree cover loss due to expanding cities and infrastructure.

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The impact on the country's carbon emissions is profound. The total gross emissions from tree cover loss have reached alarming levels, with millions of metric tons of CO2 equivalent released into the atmosphere each year. This not only exacerbates global climate change but also affects local ecosystems and biodiversity.

The latest fire alert, although isolated, serves as a reminder of the potential for wildfires to further aggravate the situation. While the data does not specify the extent of the damage caused by the fire, it underscores the need for increased vigilance and proactive measures to protect the remaining forested areas.

The Dominican Republic's struggle with tree cover loss is a complex issue that requires comprehensive strategies to address the underlying causes. As the country continues to develop, finding a balance between economic growth and environmental conservation will be crucial for the sustainability of its natural resources.

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