Forest fires nearly doubled in 2 decades

Forest fires around the world now account for 33% of all tree cover loss, nearly double the figure from two decades ago.

Forest fires are becoming increasingly pervasive, with climate change having a direct impact on the rate, as per a research analysis.

Forest fires around the world now account for 33% of all tree cover loss, nearly double the figure from two decades ago.

The conclusion was reached after the University of Maryland conducted extensive research using data from 2001 to 2023, indicating an average annual increase of 5.4% in burned areas.

This dramatic escalation is intrinsically linked to climate change, which exacerbates the frequency and intensity of extreme heatwaves and creates drier conditions that make forests increasingly susceptible to fires.