Annual Forest Area Change Rate 2017

Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone ranked #187 globally with an Annual Forest Area Change Rate of -19726.025 % in 2017. This rate is among the highest rates of deforestation worldwide, significantly exceeding the global average. Key drivers include extensive logging for timber and agricultural expansion, particularly for cash crops, which have led to severe forest loss in the country.

Saint Martin (French part)

In 2017, Saint Martin (French part) had an Annual Forest Area Change Rate of 0 %, ranking #126 out of 226 countries. This figure is notably lower than many Caribbean neighbors, which often experience more dynamic changes in forest areas due to varying land use practices.

The lack of change in forest area can be attributed to the island's limited landmass and the impact of tourism development, which prioritizes infrastructure over natural preservation. Additionally, local policies may focus more on economic growth than on environmental sustainability, leading to stagnation in forest area expansion.

Cameroon

In 2017, Cameroon had an Annual Forest Area Change Rate of -178496.1 %, ranking #215 out of 226 countries. This drastic decline is significantly worse than many neighboring countries, reflecting severe deforestation issues in the region. Key drivers include extensive logging activities, agricultural expansion, and insufficient enforcement of environmental regulations, which have all contributed to the rapid loss of forest cover.

Latvia

In 2017, Latvia achieved a global rank of #39 with an Annual Forest Area Change Rate of 7101.953 %. This figure significantly exceeds the global average, highlighting Latvia's commitment to forest preservation and expansion compared to many other countries. Key drivers of this high change rate include extensive reforestation efforts and sustainable forestry practices, supported by national policies aimed at enhancing biodiversity and combating climate change.

Holy See

In 2017, Holy See achieved a global rank of #106 with an Annual Forest Area Change Rate of 0 %. This rate is notably lower than many countries, reflecting its unique urban landscape and limited land area, which is primarily occupied by the Vatican City. The absence of significant forested areas is driven by Holy See's status as a landlocked enclave, where urban development and historical preservation take precedence over forestry initiatives.

Paraguay

In 2017, Paraguay ranked #220 globally with an Annual Forest Area Change Rate of -250745.9 %. This significant loss places Paraguay among the bottom countries for forest area change, far exceeding the deforestation rates of its regional neighbors. The primary drivers of this alarming statistic include extensive agricultural expansion, particularly for soy cultivation, and inadequate enforcement of environmental protections, leading to widespread habitat destruction.

Mali

Mali ranked #203 globally with an Annual Forest Area Change Rate of -100545.9 % in 2017. This significant decline contrasts sharply with the global average, highlighting severe deforestation challenges. Key drivers include unsustainable agricultural practices, land degradation, and the impact of climate change, which have exacerbated forest loss in the region.

Nepal

Nepal achieved a global rank of #29 with an Annual Forest Area Change Rate of 16579.98 % in 2017. This figure is significantly higher than many neighboring countries, indicating a notable increase in forest cover compared to the global average. Key drivers for this change include government reforestation initiatives and community forestry programs that empower local populations to manage forest resources sustainably.

Saint Barthélemy

In 2017, Saint Barthélemy had an Annual Forest Area Change Rate of 0 %, ranking #123 out of 226 countries. This rate is notably lower than many Caribbean nations, which often face deforestation challenges due to tourism and agriculture. The island's limited land area and strict environmental regulations contribute to its stable forest area, reflecting a commitment to preserving its natural landscape.

Guam

In 2017, Guam had an Annual Forest Area Change Rate of 0 %, ranking #105 out of 226 countries. This rate is notably lower than many neighboring regions, reflecting a stable forest area compared to areas facing deforestation challenges. The lack of significant change can be attributed to Guam's limited land area and strict land use policies aimed at preserving its natural resources.