Forests are still sucking up as much carbon as they were 30 years ago. But there’s a catch

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🗞️ Driving the news: Despite logging, fires, and pests, the world's forests have continued to absorb a steady amount of carbon over the last three decades, according to a new study published in Nature
• However, scientists warn that this balance may not last without improved forest management

🔭 The context: The study analyzed data from 95% of global forests, finding that while temperate forests have increased their carbon sink capacity by 30%, boreal forests have lost 36% of their capacity due to environmental stresses
• Tropical forests have remained nearly carbon-neutral due to regrowth balancing out deforestation losses

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Forests play a crucial role in mitigating climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide
• The potential decline in their carbon-sinking capacity due to ongoing deforestation and environmental damage could exacerbate global warming

⏭️ What's next: Increased restoration efforts and reduced logging are essential to maintaining and enhancing the forests' carbon sink function
• Particular focus is needed on tropical forests, which experience the highest rates of deforestation

💬 One quote: “We must protect this carbon sink,” said Yude Pan, lead author of the study and senior research scientist at the U.S. Forest Service

📈 One stat: Boreal forests have seen a 36% reduction in their carbon-sinking capacity over the study period

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