In a concerning environmental development, Bolivia has been facing a significant challenge with wildfires and shifting agriculture practices leading to substantial tree cover loss. Over the years, these factors have contributed to a net change in tree cover of -5.61%, with a total loss of 3,941,665 hectares, partially offset by a gain of 617,222 hectares.
Shifting agriculture has been the predominant driver of tree cover loss, accounting for a staggering 54.60% of the total loss over the recorded period. Wildfires, although less significant in terms of area, have been a persistent threat, with incidents continuing to emerge, as evidenced by the latest alert in the Santa Cruz Department.
Explore country profileThe cumulative effect of these drivers has not only diminished the tree cover but has also led to considerable emissions of CO2, further exacerbating the impact on Bolivia's rich biodiversity and its capacity to act as a carbon sink. The data indicates a worrying trend that underscores the need for sustainable land management practices to mitigate the ongoing loss of forested areas.
