Tropical Rainforest Loss Hits Record Levels in 2024
In 2024, the world witnessed unprecedented loss of tropical rainforests. Approximately 6.7 million hectares of primary rainforest vanished, primarily due to massive wildfires. This loss represents increase compared to previous years, with tropical forests disappearing at an alarming rate of 18 football fields per minute. The data, sourced from the University of Maryland and Global Forest Watch, marks the dire state of tropical ecosystems.
Drivers of Rainforest Loss
The primary drivers of rainforest loss have shifted dramatically. In 2024, wildfires accounted for nearly half of the total loss. Previously, agriculture was the largest contributor to deforestation. The combination of prolonged drought and high temperatures exacerbated fire conditions, particularly in Brazil, which experienced the worst drought in seventy years.
Geographical Impact
Latin America faced the most severe impact. Brazil led the world in tropical forest loss, accounting for 42% of the total. Bolivia, with a staggering 200% increase in forest loss, ranked second. Other affected countries include the Democratic Republic of Congo, Indonesia, and Peru. While Indonesia and Malaysia showed some improvement, the overall trend remains concerning.
Environmental Consequences
The loss of primary forests has dire implications for biodiversity and climate regulation. These forests are crucial for carbon storage. The estimated greenhouse gas emissions from deforestation in 2024 reached 3.1 gigatonnes. This environmental degradation poses a threat to global climate stability and disrupts local ecosystems.
India’s Situation
India saw a 6.9% decrease in overall tree cover loss from 2023 to 2024. However, the country experienced a 5.9% increase in humid primary forest loss. Factors contributing to this loss included forest fires and agricultural expansion. The northeastern states of India have been particularly affected, with losses attributed to shifting cultivation and logging.
Global Context
The year 2024 was marked as the hottest on record, with temperatures approximately 1.55°C above pre-industrial levels. Climate change and phenomena like El Niño have intensified conditions conducive to wildfires. Global tree cover loss reached record highs, affecting boreal regions like Canada and Russia as well.
Call to Action
Experts have raised alarms about the current trends in forest loss. Elizabeth Goldman, Co-Director of WRI’s Global Forest Watch, described the situation as a global red alert. The ongoing loss of forests threatens not only biodiversity but also human health and economic stability.
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