CONGO

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Context

The issue of deforestation in the Congo rainforest, which is the world's second-largest rainforest after the Amazon.

Details

• The Congo rainforest, the world's second-largest rainforest, is experiencing significant deforestation.
• The rainforest spans six African countries, with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) containing 60% of the rainforest.

Deforestation Statistics

• In 2022, the DRC lost over 500,000 hectares of forest, contributing to the overall decline of the Congo rainforest.
• The rate of primary forest loss in the DRC remains alarmingly high, with persistent deforestation.

Global Deforestation Impact

• Worldwide, 4.1 million hectares of primary tropical forest were lost in 2022, equivalent to the size of Switzerland.
• Brazil accounted for 43% of the total tropical primary forest loss, followed by the DRC and Bolivia.
• This deforestation resulted in the emission of 2.7 billion tonnes of CO2, equivalent to India's annual emissions.

Deforestation in the DRC

• From 2002 to 2022, the DRC lost 6.33 million hectares of humid primary forest, representing 35% of its total tree cover loss.
• The total area of humid primary forest in the DRC decreased by 6.1% during this period.
• Primary forests, which provide important ecosystem services, are threatened by ongoing deforestation.

Key Drivers of Deforestation

• Small clearings near cyclical agricultural areas contribute to most of the primary forest loss in the DRC.
• Population growth and increased food demand lead to shorter fallow periods and agricultural expansion into primary forest.
• Lack of access to electricity and clean cooking fuel in the DRC has resulted in heavy reliance on forests for food and energy needs.

Factors Contributing to Deforestation

• Slash-and-burn agriculture, uncontrolled bushfires, charcoal production, cattle ranching, and illegal logging are the primary drivers of deforestation in the DRC.
• Charcoal, produced by cutting and burning timber, is the dominant energy source in the region.

Economic Factors and Governance Issues

• The DRC government's decision to auction oil and gas permits in environmentally sensitive areas has raised concerns.
• Economic factors and poverty contribute to deforestation, as the DRC is among the world's poorest nations.
• Forest governance failures have hindered efforts to address deforestation, despite commitments made in the Glasgow declaration.

Implications and Challenges

• Deforestation in the Congo rainforest poses significant challenges for biodiversity conservation, climate change mitigation, and the livelihoods of local communities.
• Reducing primary forest loss in the region remains a challenge, requiring comprehensive strategies and international cooperation.

About Congo

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• The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a country located in Central Africa.
• It is the second-largest country in Africa and is known for its vast natural resources, including minerals and a significant portion of the Congo rainforest.

Geography and Biodiversity

• The DRC shares borders with nine other African countries and is characterized by diverse landscapes, including rainforests, savannahs, and mountain ranges.
• The country is home to the Congo River, the second-longest river in Africa, and the Congo Basin, one of the world's largest tropical rainforest areas.
• The Congo rainforest is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, hosting numerous plant and animal species, including endangered species such as gorillas and elephants.

Population and Culture

• The DRC has a population of over 85 million people, making it one of the most populous countries in Africa.
• It is home to several ethnic groups, including the Bantu, Luba, Kongo, and many others, each with its own distinct cultural traditions, languages, and customs.
• Kinshasa, the capital city, is a vibrant cultural hub with a diverse population and rich artistic and musical traditions.

Natural Resources and Economy

• The DRC is abundantly rich in natural resources, including copper, cobalt, gold, diamonds, and timber.
• However, the exploitation of these resources has been accompanied by challenges, such as corruption, illegal mining, and environmental degradation.
• The economy heavily relies on the mining sector, but agriculture, including subsistence farming, also plays a significant role in rural areas.

Political and Social Challenges

• The DRC has experienced periods of political instability and conflict, leading to humanitarian crises and displacement of people.
• The country has faced challenges related to governance, corruption, weak infrastructure, and limited access to basic services such as healthcare and education.
• Efforts to establish stability, democracy, and sustainable development have been ongoing, supported by international organizations and peacekeeping missions.

Conservation and Environmental Concerns

• The Congo rainforest, located in the DRC, is under threat from deforestation, primarily driven by activities such as slash-and-burn agriculture, illegal logging, and mining.
• Deforestation poses risks to biodiversity, contributes to climate change, and affects the livelihoods of local communities who depend on forest resources.
• Conservation initiatives, international collaborations, and sustainable land-use practices are being pursued to protect the unique ecosystems and promote sustainable development.

Future Outlook

• The DRC has immense potential for economic growth, sustainable development, and environmental conservation.
• Addressing political, social, and environmental challenges, while promoting good governance and inclusive development, is crucial for the country's future progress.
• International support, investment, and cooperation are vital in realizing the DRC's potential and ensuring a better future for its people and natural resources.

https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/africa/congo-world-s-2nd-largest-rainforest-continues-to-vanish-with-half-a-million-hectares-lost-in-2022-says-report-90284