The JRC released new Version 4 of the Global Forest Cover map for the year 2020

Dear subscribers,

We are pleased to inform you on that the European Commission Joint Research Centre (JRC) has released map Version 4 of the Global Forest Cover map for the year 2020 (GFC2020). The new Version 4 integrates newest data on forest height, forest management and types, improving the spatial representation of forest. Most significant changes are notable in Mesoamerica, the Northern Andes, the Cerrado region of Brazil, Western and Eastern Africa and Eastern China. 

Map Version 4 is available through several portals: via the EU Observatory on deforestation and forest degradation, the General JRC access, or as Web Mapping Service (simply copy this link into your GIS). It can also be downloaded as 10x10 degree tiles, as tiles, or single file from the JRC Big Data Analytics Platform. Analysis-ready data can also be accessed through Google Earth Engine or the IMPACT Toolbox (EUDR module). (Caption for the Figure: Net area differences in 1x1 degree cells between GFC2020 Version 4 and 3.)

Looking ahead, the JRC is updating the Global Forest Type map for the year 2020 (GFT2020). A technical report covering both maps is expected to be released in December 2026 or January 2027.

What is the EU Observatory? 

The EU Observatory on deforestation and forest degradation provided by the Commission is a free tool for all stakeholders that helps determine the global forest cover of 2020, aimed at supporting operators and competent authorities in the implementation of the EUDR. It is non-exclusive, non-mandatory and carries no legal value. Public and private stakeholders can use any maps or other data that they see fit for the purpose of their due diligence exercise or checks.

Further detailed information on EU Observatory on deforestation and forest degradation and the Global Forest Maps can be found on the Commission Website.

Best regards,

The ENV DEFORESTATION Team