The country's tree cover loss peaked in 2006 and 2017, with over 104,000 hectares and 94,000 hectares lost, respectively. In contrast, 2022 saw a relative decrease in tree cover loss, amounting to approximately 41,000 hectares. Despite the fluctuations, the overall trend indicates a persistent challenge in maintaining and increasing tree cover in South Africa.
The recent fire incident in Western Cape highlights the ongoing threat of wildfires to the region's tree cover. While the incident count for this particular event was low, the historical data underscores the importance of addressing all forms of tree cover loss to ensure the sustainability of South Africa's natural landscapes.
