Mozambique has witnessed a significant escalation in tree cover loss over the years, with a recent incident highlighting the ongoing environmental challenges. On October 28, 2024, a fire alert was reported in Gaza Province, adding to the country's environmental woes. Analysis of historical data reveals that shifting agriculture has been the predominant driver of tree cover loss, contributing to the majority of the 4.90 million hectares lost since 2001. This loss represents a 10.21% decrease in tree cover from the original extent. Urbanization and forestry activities also play a role, though to a lesser extent.
The impact on the environment is substantial, with the total gross emissions of CO2 equivalent reaching staggering figures annually. In 2022 alone, the emissions from tree cover loss were approximately 93.74 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent, with shifting agriculture accounting for over 99% of this figure. The trend of tree cover loss has not only implications for carbon emissions but also for biodiversity, soil health, and local climate regulation.
Explore country profileThe recent fire incident in Gaza Province is a stark reminder of the ongoing environmental degradation. While the data does not specify the causes of wildfires, the loss of tree cover due to human activities can exacerbate the vulnerability of regions to fire incidents. As Mozambique continues to face these environmental challenges, the need for sustainable land management and conservation efforts becomes increasingly critical to preserve the remaining tree cover and mitigate further loss.
