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29 Jul 2024

Angola Grapples with Environmental Impact as Tree Cover Loss Persists
Angola Grapples with Environmental Impact as Tree Cover Loss Persists

In a concerning environmental trend, Angola has experienced significant tree cover loss over the past two decades. The country, which boasts an area of over 124 million hectares, has seen its tree cover extent, initially at approximately 55 million hectares, diminish due to various factors. Shifting agriculture has been identified as the primary driver of this decline, contributing overwhelmingly to the loss.

Analysis of historical data reveals a persistent pattern of tree cover reduction, with the most substantial losses occurring in years like 2017 and 2021, where over 280,000 hectares were lost each year. The cumulative effect of these losses has led to a net negative change in tree cover, with a 4.41% decrease over the observed period.

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The impact of wildfires, although less significant than shifting agriculture, has also been notable. The latest incident in Cunene Province on July 29, 2024, adds to the growing list of fire-related disturbances in the country's ecosystems. While the number of incidents may seem minimal, the cumulative effect over time contributes to the broader environmental degradation.

The consequences of these trends are multifaceted, affecting not only the natural biodiversity but also the carbon sequestration potential of the region. With a net loss of over 2.10 million hectares of tree cover, Angola faces a challenge in reversing these trends and mitigating the environmental impact of such extensive land-use changes.

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