Story perspectives

Africa's Forests Shift: 106 Million Tonnes Lost Annually

12/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The new study finds Africa's forests have shifted from carbon sinks to carbon sources, losing 106 million tonnes of biomass annually between 2010 and 2017.
Population growth, increased export demand, and agricultural expansion increase pressure on forests.
The report calls for sustainable resource management and improved governance.
Experts warn reversing losses requires political and economic action and a rapid fossil-fuel transition to mitigate climate change.

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Story summary

The new study finds Africa's forests have shifted from carbon sinks to carbon sources, losing 106 million tonnes of biomass annually between 2010 and 2017.
Population growth, increased export demand, and agricultural expansion increase pressure on forests.
The report calls for sustainable resource management and improved governance.
Experts warn reversing losses requires political and economic action and a rapid fossil-fuel transition to mitigate climate change.