Sudan has reported a new fire incident in the region of East Darfur, according to the latest data. This incident comes amidst a broader environmental context where the country has experienced varying levels of tree cover loss over the years, primarily due to shifting agriculture. While the total area of Sudan spans over 187 million hectares, the tree cover extent is a mere 72,712 hectares. Analysis of historical data reveals that the highest annual tree cover loss occurred in 2011, with over 205 hectares affected, largely attributed to shifting agricultural practices.
Over the years, the country has seen a net change in tree cover with a gain of approximately 216,597 hectares, against a loss of 85,308 hectares. This represents a net positive change of 131,288 hectares, which is a 3.45% increase in tree cover. The disturbances in tree cover, however, have contributed to significant emissions of CO2, with shifting agriculture being the dominant driver.
Explore country profileThe environmental impact of these incidents and trends is complex, with the loss of tree cover contributing to habitat destruction, loss of biodiversity, and changes in the local climate. The recent fire in East Darfur is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges that Sudan faces in managing its natural resources and mitigating the effects of environmental degradation.
