Record forest loss of concern in northern regions of the world

2021 saw the northern regions of the world facing the highest rate of forest loss since records began. Boreal forests in particular have seen losses of up to 30% in comparison to the previous year.

Russia, Canada and Alaska have seen significant reduction of primary tree cover. Whilst some of the loss has occurred as a result of deforestation, much of it is as a result of climate change; with higher temperatures leading to increased forest fires and invasive species causing damage. Russia has suffered its biggest fire since records began, losing 6.5 million hectares.

Whilst the forest loss in these areas is concerning, 96% of the global forest loss still occurs in tropical regions, with Brazil and the DRC having the greatest rates of deforestation. Indonesia have managed to fight back against the rapid deforestation rates with bans in place at expanding palm oil plantations. However with palm oil demand increasing, whilst the current figures appear promising, the future is still concerning, as greater pressure will be placed on Indonesia to convert their primary forest cover into plantation land.

For more on this story, check out the following news article from the BBC.