South Africa has experienced significant environmental changes, with recent data showing a concerning trend in tree cover loss. Over the past two decades, the country has seen a net decrease in tree cover of 1.86%, with a total loss of 530,16.50 hectares, only partially offset by a gain of 388,239.98 hectares. Notably, forestry activities have been the primary driver, contributing to the majority of the tree cover loss, followed by shifting agriculture which also plays a significant role in the landscape alteration.
The impact of wildfires, although comparatively smaller in terms of area, remains a persistent threat, as evidenced by the latest incident in the Western Cape region. Urbanization, while contributing to a lesser extent, also adds to the cumulative loss of tree cover. This loss not only affects the natural beauty and biodiversity of the region but also has broader implications for carbon emissions and climate change.
Explore country profileThe country's tree cover extent stands at 5,983,115.29 hectares, which is a critical natural resource for maintaining ecological balance and supporting livelihoods. The net change in tree cover indicates a complex interplay between loss, gain, and disturbance, underscoring the need for sustainable management practices to protect and restore these vital ecosystems.
