Sudan's historic acacia forest devastated as war fuels logging
Phys.org
February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Sudan's once-lush acacia forests, located south of the capital Khartoum, have suffered devastating deforestation due to nearly three years of conflict. Vast areas that were once covered in vibrant greenery have been reduced to fields of stumps, with logging activities accelerating as a direct consequence of war. This environmental crisis highlights how prolonged conflict not only disrupts ecosystems but also strips away natural resources crucial for local communities and biodiversity.
The destruction of these forests is closely tied to the ongoing war, which has created conditions that facilitate illegal logging. Displaced populations and rebel groups are turning to the forest for resources, including timber, to sustain themselves or profit from sales. The acacia trees, known for their resilience and ecological importance, have become a casualty of war, with their removal contributing to broader deforestation trends in the region.
This environmental degradation has significant consequences for both local ecosystems and global climate efforts. Acacia forests play a vital role in preventing desertification and sequestering carbon dioxide. Their loss exacerbates the impacts of climate change, underscores the urgency of addressing not only conflict but also its far-reaching environmental consequences. The situation in Sudan serves as a stark reminder of how intertwined human conflict is with ecological health, making it a critical issue for scientists and policymakers alike.
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Originally published on Phys.org on 2/19/2026