Venezuela has experienced a significant environmental impact due to ongoing tree cover loss, according to recent data. Over the years, the country has seen a net decrease in tree cover of approximately 2.49%, with a total loss of 1,860,299 hectares and a gain of only 491,358 hectares. The majority of this loss, amounting to over 1.30 million hectares, has been attributed to disturbances such as shifting agriculture, which has been the primary driver, followed by forestry, urbanization, and wildfires.
The data reveals that shifting agriculture alone is responsible for a substantial portion of the tree cover loss, with the practice leading to the clearing of tens of thousands of hectares each year. Forestry activities and urbanization also contribute to the decline, although to a lesser extent. Wildfires, while not the leading cause, still pose a significant threat to Venezuela's forests, as evidenced by the latest incident in the Falcón region, where a fire alert was recorded on July 25, 2024.
Explore country profileThe environmental consequences of these losses are far-reaching, affecting biodiversity, climate regulation, and the livelihoods of local communities. The decline in tree cover not only impacts the immediate areas but also has broader implications for global environmental health. As the world grapples with climate change and biodiversity loss, the situation in Venezuela serves as a reminder of the urgent need for sustainable land management practices.
