The cumulative impact of these activities has not only reduced the tree cover but has also led to significant carbon emissions. In 2022, the total tree cover loss was over 103,000 hectares, contributing to more than 61 million metric tons of CO2 emissions. While the exact contribution of wildfires to these figures is not specified, the recurrence of fire incidents suggests an underlying vulnerability in forest management and environmental conservation.
As Cambodia confronts these incidents, the broader implications for biodiversity, climate change, and local livelihoods become increasingly pressing. The country's struggle with tree cover loss and fire incidents underscores the need for a comprehensive approach to environmental stewardship, one that balances development with the preservation of natural resources.
