Global Forest Watch shows forest cover losses and gains worldwide

Global Forest Watch tool screenshot (Credit: World Resources Institute)

Beginning as part of the World Resources Institute’s Forest Frontiers Initiative, the Global Forest Watch tool is now an online system that lets visitors see forest management worldwide with a few clicks, according to the tool’s about page.

The forest cover it shows is based on data from satellites, public sources and crowdsourced efforts. This open data approach helps to keep the tool free and helps engage site visitors who may one day also contribute data.

The map-like tool is similar to other interactive layouts. Clicking and dragging will bring different areas into focus, while a selection cursor lets visitors segment regions for analysis. A color key tells if forest zones have seen losses or gains.

Image: Global Forest Watch tool screenshot (Credit: World Resources Institute)