Between 2000 and 2020, the world gained an impressive 130.9 million hectares of tree cover, led by Russia, Canada, and the United States. This growth is driven by natural regeneration, human-assisted restoration, and managed plantations. However, the planet also faced a net loss of 100.6 million hectares due to deforestation and land-use changes, with a deforestation rate of 7.51 million hectares per year from 2015 to 2020.
Zooming in on the Philippines, from 2020 to 2023, the country lost 240 thousand hectares of tree cover, a 1.3% decrease since 2000, resulting in 143 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions. In 2023 alone, 32.4 thousand hectares of natural forest were lost, equating to 25.6 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions.
To combat these challenges, we must enhance reforestation efforts, adopt sustainable land management practices, and support policies protecting natural forests. Promoting agroforestry, restoring degraded lands, and engaging local communities in conservation are vital steps.
How do you think we can all contribute to forest growth?
Credits
Carlo Chen Delantar Team Lead
Annika Henrico Researcher
Agnes Boncodin Creatives