Guinea has witnessed a significant decline in its tree cover over the years, with a net loss of approximately 1.59 million hectares, marking an 8.34% decrease from its original extent. The predominant cause of this deforestation has been shifting agriculture, which accounts for the majority of the tree cover loss. In addition to agriculture, wildfires have also played a substantial role in this environmental challenge, contributing to both the loss of tree cover and the release of carbon emissions into the atmosphere.
The latest incident in Labé, Guinea, with a single fire alert, is a stark reminder of the persistent threat wildfires pose to the region's forests and ecosystems. Over two decades, the country has seen a fluctuating yet concerning trend in tree cover loss, with the highest recorded in 2017 at over 231,000 hectares. The data reveals a pressing need for attention to Guinea's natural resources, as the loss of tree cover not only impacts biodiversity but also the livelihoods of communities dependent on these forests.
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