Venezuela's vast forested landscapes are undergoing significant changes, with recent data showing a persistent loss of tree cover. Over the years, the country has experienced a net decrease in tree cover of approximately 2.49%, a troubling trend for one of the most biodiverse countries in the world. The primary driver of this loss has been identified as shifting agriculture, which alone accounts for a substantial portion of the deforestation. Other contributing factors include forestry activities, wildfires, and urbanization.
The impact of these activities is not only limited to the loss of tree cover but also to the significant emissions of CO2 equivalent gases. The data reveals that shifting agriculture is the leading cause of these emissions, highlighting the need for sustainable land management practices. While there has been some gain in tree cover, it is overshadowed by the larger extent of loss and disturbance, leading to a net negative change.
Explore country profileThe latest incident from Monagas, Venezuela, where a fire alert was reported, underscores the ongoing challenges faced by the country's forests. These incidents, while seemingly small in isolation, contribute to the broader pattern of environmental degradation. The loss of tree cover in Venezuela is a pressing issue that requires attention and action to ensure the preservation of its forests for future generations.
