Ecuador has witnessed a persistent loss of tree cover over the past two decades, with a net decrease of approximately 1.50%. The country, which boasts a tree cover extent of over 19 million hectares, has experienced significant environmental impacts due to this decline. The primary driver of tree cover loss has been identified as shifting agriculture, accounting for the vast majority of the loss each year. Urbanization, though a smaller contributor, has also played a consistent role in the reduction of tree cover.
The latest incident in Azuay, Ecuador, where a fire alert was recorded, is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges the country faces in managing its natural resources. While wildfires have not been a major driver historically, they represent a potential threat to the remaining forested areas.
Explore country profileThe cumulative effect of these losses is substantial, with the total tree cover loss over the years amounting to hundreds of thousands of hectares. This has inevitably led to significant emissions of carbon dioxide equivalents, further contributing to global climate change concerns. The data underscores the need for continued vigilance and action to mitigate the loss of tree cover and protect Ecuador's rich biodiversity.
