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28 Aug 2024

Madagascar Battles Escalating Tree Cover Loss and Wildfire Incidents
Madagascar Battles Escalating Tree Cover Loss and Wildfire Incidents

Madagascar has been grappling with significant environmental challenges, as recent data indicates a concerning trend of tree cover loss predominantly driven by shifting agriculture. Over the past two decades, the island nation has seen a net decrease in tree cover of approximately 1.02 million hectares, marking a 5.89% decline from its original extent. Shifting agriculture remains the primary driver, responsible for the vast majority of the 3.50 million hectares lost since 2001, while forestry activities and wildfires contribute to a lesser extent.

The latest incident from Boeny, Madagascar, underscores the ongoing struggle with a single wildfire alert reported on August 28, 2024. This incident adds to the cumulative environmental strain the country faces. Although wildfires account for a relatively small portion of the tree cover loss, their impact on Madagascar's unique biodiversity and carbon emissions is non-negligible.

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The data reveals that the annual tree cover loss has fluctuated over the years, with some of the highest losses recorded in 2017 and 2014, at over 500,000 hectares each year. The decline in tree cover not only threatens the habitat of countless species but also has implications for local communities relying on these ecosystems for their livelihoods.

Madagascar's battle against environmental degradation is a stark reminder of the delicate balance between agricultural practices, land management, and conservation efforts. The country's rich biodiversity and natural landscapes continue to be at risk, highlighting the need for sustainable solutions to curb the loss and protect its remaining natural heritage.

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