By what percent has the global forest area per capita decreased?

Factful math: Grade 5th-6th

Math skills: Percent change

Related Environmental issues: Biodiversity & Deforestation

Global forest area per capita has decreased from 15,000m2 in 1960 to 5,000m2 in 2019. By what percent has the global forest area per capita decreased over the last 60 years?

A. 1%

B. 2%

C. 65%

D. 180%


Answer: C

(14,000 – 5,000)/ 14,000 x 100 = about 65%

Source: Hannay, J., 2022. New Study finds global forest area per capita has decreased by over 60%. IOP Publishing.

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