1
|
Zhang S, Qu X, Huang G, Hu P. Reduced rainfall over the Amazon basin in an idealized CO 2 removal scenario: Remote dynamic processes. J Environ Sci (China) 2025; 155:525-537. [PMID: 40246487 DOI: 10.1016/j.jes.2024.05.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2024] [Revised: 05/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2025]
Abstract
The Amazon basin plays a crucial role in biodiversity and carbon storage, but its local rainfall is anticipated to decrease under global warming. Carbon dioxide removal (CDR) is being considered as a method to mitigate the impact of global warming. However, the specific effects of CDR on Amazon rainfall have not been well understood. Here, an idealized CDR experiment reveals that the reduced rainfall over the Amazon basin does not recover. Significantly weaker rainfall is found during the ramp-down period compared to the ramp-up period at the same CO2 concentration. This response is associated with the enhanced El Niño-like warming in the tropical Pacific Ocean during the CDR period. This warming pattern has dual effects: weakening the zonal circulation and causing anomalous descent directly over the Amazon basin, while also triggering a stationary Rossby wave train that propagated downstream and generated anomalous ascent over the Sargasso Sea. This anomalous ascent induces anomalous descent and weakens moisture transport over the Amazon basin by the local meridional circulation. Consequently, precipitation is reduced over the Amazon basin in response to the weakened zonal and meridional circulation. Our findings indicate that even if the atmospheric CO2 concentration is lowered, the Amazon basin will remain susceptible to drought. Effective local climate adaptation strategies are urgently needed to address the vulnerability of this critical ecosystem.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Suqin Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Numerical Modeling for Atmospheric Sciences and Geophysical Fluid Dynamics, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xia Qu
- State Key Laboratory of Numerical Modeling for Atmospheric Sciences and Geophysical Fluid Dynamics, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China; Center for Monsoon System Research, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China.
| | - Gang Huang
- State Key Laboratory of Numerical Modeling for Atmospheric Sciences and Geophysical Fluid Dynamics, Institute of Atmospheric Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100029, China; Laboratory for Regional Oceanography and Numerical Modeling, Qingdao National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266237, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Peng Hu
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Meteorological Disasters and Climate Resources in the Greater Mekong Subregion, Yunnan University, Kunming 650091, China; Department of Atmospheric Sciences, Yunnan University, Kunming 650500, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Mansingh A, Pradhan A, Sahoo SR, Cherwa SS, Mishra BP, Rath LP, Ekka NJ, Panda BP. Tree diversity, population structure, biomass accumulation, and carbon stock dynamics in tropical dry deciduous forests of Eastern India. BMC Ecol Evol 2025; 25:48. [PMID: 40380124 PMCID: PMC12083108 DOI: 10.1186/s12862-025-02385-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2025] [Indexed: 05/19/2025] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Tropical dry deciduous forests are crucial for biodiversity conservation and carbon storage but are increasingly threatened by human activities and climate change. This Study evaluates tree diversity, population structure, and biomass carbon stock across five forest ranges of eastern India. METHODOLOGY A stratified random sampling approach was implemented using a 5 km × 5 km grid for vegetational attribute studies. Tree diversity was assessed within 0.1 ha (31.62 m × 31.62 m) plots, while biomass estimation focused on trees with ≥ 10 cm. girth at breast height. Population structure and biomass estimation were analyzed across six defined girth classes, employing standardized protocols to ensure accurate carbon stock estimation. RESULTS A total of 80 tree species belonging to 68 genera and 33 families were recorded, with Fabaceae emerging as the dominant family. Significant variation in species richness (32-52 species), tree density (804-1332 trees/ha), and basal area (18.28-24.92 m²/ha) was observed across the five forest ranges. Kolabira forest range (3.45) and Bagdihi forest range (3.37) exhibited the highest diversity indices, highlighting their ecological significance and carbon sequestration potential. Mid-sized trees (32-101 cm) contributed the most to biomass accumulation, while the lower densities in other size classes suggest selective exploitation. Total biomass was highest in Belpahar forest range (129.63 Mg/ha) and lowest in Jharsuguda forest range (86.73 Mg/ha), with a corresponding biomass carbon stock of 58.47 MgC/ha and 40.76 MgC/ha, respectively, emphasizing spatial variations in carbon storage across these dry deciduous forests. CONCLUSION The findings highlight the ecological significance of tropical dry deciduous forests and underscore the urgent need for conservation strategies to safeguard biodiversity and enhance carbon storage. In parallel, the study offers a valuable scientific foundation for advancing forest management practices and shaping policies to address biodiversity loss and climate challenges in this vital region of India.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Abinash Mansingh
- School of Life Sciences, Sambalpur University, Burla, 768019, Odisha, India
| | | | - Satya Ranjan Sahoo
- School of Life Sciences, Sambalpur University, Burla, 768019, Odisha, India
| | | | | | - Laxmi Prasad Rath
- School of Life Sciences, Sambalpur University, Burla, 768019, Odisha, India
| | - Nirius Jenan Ekka
- School of Life Sciences, Sambalpur University, Burla, 768019, Odisha, India.
| | - Bibhu Prasad Panda
- Environmental Science, Department of Chemistry, Institute of Technical Education & Research, Siksha 'O' Anusandhan (Deemed to be University), Bhubaneswar, 751030, Odisha, India.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sun J, Cui W, Wang W, Yang X. The microclimatic and ecohydrological effects of photovoltaic facilities in arid/semi-arid regions of China: An integrated modeling study. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2025; 382:125395. [PMID: 40258310 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.125395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2025] [Revised: 04/08/2025] [Accepted: 04/13/2025] [Indexed: 04/23/2025]
Abstract
Photovoltaic (PV) facilities play a pivotal role in restructuring energy systems and mitigating carbon emissions. However, they also alter local microclimates and ecohydrological conditions, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. Most existing studies focus on individual environmental factors and overlook the coupled interactions among soil, vegetation, atmosphere, and PV infrastructure. To address this, we developed a novel soil-plant-PV-atmosphere continuum (SPPVAC) model that integrates airflow, heat, and moisture transport processes with vegetation dynamics. The model was validated with field observations and applied to a representative PV site in Zhangjiakou, northern China. Results show that PV facilities reduce wind speed by 27.6-42.3 %, increase air temperature by 2.31 °C, and raise humidity by 35.8 % in sheltered areas. These microclimatic changes enhance biomass productivity of soybean, alfalfa, and parsnip by 48.3 %, 42.9 %, and 26.7 %, respectively. Crops with higher leaf area density exhibited stronger transpiration and microclimate regulation. This study provides an integrated simulation framework to evaluate microclimate-vegetation feedback under PV systems and offers crop-specific insights for optimizing agrivoltaic design. The findings highlight the potential of PV infrastructure to support both renewable energy generation and ecological restoration.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingbo Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Wenrui Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Wenhui Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China
| | - Xiaofan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Lee D, Park SW, Shin Y, Kim JS, Kam J, Kug JS. Land use change-induced abrupt changes in vegetation and the role of climate factors. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2025; 380:125097. [PMID: 40147410 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.125097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2025] [Revised: 03/02/2025] [Accepted: 03/19/2025] [Indexed: 03/29/2025]
Abstract
Land use change (LUC) and climate are major factors constraining terrestrial ecosystem. As these impacts are expected to intensify in the future, it is necessary to quantify the effects of anthropogenic LUC on the terrestrial biosphere and its interactions with regional climate. Here, we identify abrupt decreases in the Leaf Area Index (LAI) from 2015 to 2100, primarily driven by LUC through cropland expansion. We further examine the role of climate change in the identified LAI reductions. In areas experiencing LUC, a negative relationship between LAI and surface temperature leads to a positive feedback, which reinforces decreasing LAI and increasing warming. Moreover, prolonged regional dry conditions and a shift towards drier climate conditions further exacerbate LAI reductions. These climate change impacts have a large spatial variation and cause western South America to show the most pronounced LAI sensitivity to LUC under the shared socioeconomic pathways (SSP) 3-7.0 scenario. These results highlight the combined effects of LUC and climate change, leading to future abrupt decreases in vegetation cover.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Danbi Lee
- Division of Environmental Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, South Korea; School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - So-Won Park
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Yechul Shin
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Jin-Soo Kim
- Low-Carbon and Climate Impact Research Centre, School of Energy and Environment, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jonghun Kam
- Division of Environmental Science and Engineering, Pohang University of Science and Technology (POSTECH), Pohang, South Korea
| | - Jong-Seong Kug
- School of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Seoul National University, Seoul, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Serrão EAO, Cavalcante RBL, Zanin PR, Tedeschi RG, Ferreira TR, Pontes PRM. The effects of teleconnections on water and carbon fluxes in the two South America's largest biomes. Sci Rep 2025; 15:1395. [PMID: 39789301 PMCID: PMC11718053 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-025-85272-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2024] [Accepted: 01/01/2025] [Indexed: 01/12/2025] Open
Abstract
Ecosystem services provided by terrestrial biomes, such as moisture recycling and carbon assimilation, are crucial components of the water, energy, and biogeochemical cycles. These biophysical processes are influenced by climate variability driven by distant ocean-atmosphere interactions, commonly referred to as teleconnections. This study aims to identify which teleconnections most significantly affect key biophysical processes in South America's two largest biomes: The Amazon and Cerrado. Using 20 years of monthly data on Precipitation (P), Evapotranspiration (ET), Gross Primary Productivity (GPP), and Ecosystem Water Use Efficiency (EWUE), alongside data from six teleconnections (Antarctic Oscillation - AAO, Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation - AMO, Oceanic Niño Index - ONI, Atlantic Meridional Mode - AMM, North Atlantic Oscillation - NAO, and Pacific Decadal Oscillation - PDO), we developed a multivariate linear model to assess the relative importance of each teleconnection. Additionally, time-lagged Spearman correlations were used to explore relationships between biophysical variables and teleconnections. Our findings indicate that the AMO exerts the strongest influence across all studied variables. Furthermore, ONI and AMM significantly impact precipitation in the northern Amazon, with a 3-month lag in ONI showing positive correlations with ET and GPP. In contrast, a 3-month lag in AMO negatively influences GPP in the southern Amazon and Cerrado, though positive correlations with EWUE were observed in the same region. These insights highlight the complex and regionally varied impacts of teleconnections on South America's largest biomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Paulo R Zanin
- Vale Institute of Technology, Sustainable Development, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Renata G Tedeschi
- Vale Institute of Technology, Sustainable Development, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Thomas R Ferreira
- Institute of Atmospheric Sciences, Federal University of Alagoas, Maceió, Alagoas, Brazil
| | - Paulo R M Pontes
- Vale Institute of Technology, Sustainable Development, Belém, Pará, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Xi H, Li T. Unveiling the spatiotemporal dynamics and influencing factors of carbon stocks in the yangtze river basin over the past two decades. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 954:176261. [PMID: 39277012 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.176261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 09/09/2024] [Accepted: 09/11/2024] [Indexed: 09/17/2024]
Abstract
Terrestrial ecosystems are critical to the global carbon cycle and climate change mitigation. Over the past two decades, the Yangtze River Basin (YRB) has implemented various ecological restoration projects and active management measures, significantly impacting carbon stock patterns. This study employed random forest models to analyze the spatial and temporal patterns of carbon stocks in the YRB from 2001 to 2021. In 2021, carbon density in the YRB ranged from 8.5 to 177.4 MgC/ha, with a total carbon stock of 18.05 PgC. Over 20 years, the YRB sequestered 1.26 billion tons of carbon, accounting for 11.28 % of the region's fossil fuel carbon emissions. Notably, forests exhibited the highest carbon density, averaging 98.01 ± 25.01 MgC/ha (2021) with a carbon stock growth rate of 51.6 TgC/yr. Piecewise structural equation model was used to assess the effects of climate and human activities on carbon density, revealing regional variability, with unique patterns observed in the source region. Human activities primarily influence carbon density indirectly through vegetation alterations., while climate change directly impacts ecosystem biophysical processes. These findings offer critical insights for climate mitigation and adaptation strategies, enhancing the understanding of carbon dynamics for sustainable development and global carbon management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Haojun Xi
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of All Material Fluxes in River Ecosystems, Beijing 100871, China
| | - Tianhong Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China; State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of All Material Fluxes in River Ecosystems, Beijing 100871, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Li Y. Climate feedback from plant physiological responses to increasing atmospheric CO 2 in Earth system models. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2024; 244:2176-2182. [PMID: 39394759 DOI: 10.1111/nph.20184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2024] [Accepted: 09/10/2024] [Indexed: 10/14/2024]
Abstract
Plant physiological responses to increasing atmospheric CO2 concentration (iCO2), including enhanced photosynthesis and reduced stomatal conductance, impact regional and global climate. Here, I describe recent advances in understanding these effects through Earth system models (ESMs). Idealized simulations of a 1% annual iCO2 show that despite fertilization, CO2 physiological forcing contributes to 10% of warming and at least 30% of future precipitation decline in Amazonia. This reduces aboveground vegetation carbon storage and triggers positive carbon-climate feedback. ESM simulations indicate that reduced transpiration and increased heat stress from iCO2 could amplify meteorological drought and wildfire risks. Understanding these climate feedbacks is essential for improving carbon accounting in natural climate solutions, such as avoiding deforestation and reforestation, as iCO2 complicates assessing their climate benefits.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yue Li
- Department of Geography, University of California, Los Angeles, 90095, CA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Luo H, Quaas J, Han Y. Decreased cloud cover partially offsets the cooling effects of surface albedo change due to deforestation. Nat Commun 2024; 15:7345. [PMID: 39187570 PMCID: PMC11347566 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-51783-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 08/19/2024] [Indexed: 08/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Biophysical processes of forests affect climate through the regulation of surface water and heat fluxes, which leads to further effects through the adjustment of clouds and water cycles. These indirect biophysical effects of forests on clouds and their radiative forcing are poorly understood but highly relevant in the context of large-scale deforestation or afforestation, respectively. Here, we provide evidence for local decreases in global low-level clouds and tropical high-level clouds from deforestation through both idealized deforestation simulations with climate models and from observations-driven reanalysis using space-for-time substitution. The decreased cloud cover can be explained by alterations in surface turbulent heat flux, which diminishes uplift and moisture to varying extents. Deforestation-induced reduction in cloud cover warms the climate, partially counteracting the cooling effects of increased surface albedo. The findings from idealized deforestation experiments and space-for-time substitution exhibit disparities, with global average offsets of, respectively, approximately 44% and 26%, suggesting the necessity for further constraints.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hao Luo
- Advanced Science & Technology of Space and Atmospheric Physics Group (ASAG), School of Atmospheric Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 519082, Zhuhai, China.
- Leipzig Institute for Meteorology, Leipzig University, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Johannes Quaas
- Leipzig Institute for Meteorology, Leipzig University, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
- German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Yong Han
- Advanced Science & Technology of Space and Atmospheric Physics Group (ASAG), School of Atmospheric Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, 519082, Zhuhai, China.
- Key Laboratory of Tropical Atmosphere-Ocean System (Sun Yat-sen University), Ministry of Education, 519082, Zhuhai, China.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Ma S, Zhou S, Yu B, Song J. Deforestation-induced runoff changes dominated by forest-climate feedbacks. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2024; 10:eadp3964. [PMID: 39151013 PMCID: PMC11328898 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.adp3964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/18/2024]
Abstract
Large-scale deforestation alters water availability through its direct effect on runoff generation and indirect effect through forest-climate feedbacks. However, these direct and indirect effects and their spatial variations are difficult to separate and poorly understood. Here, we develop an attribution framework that combines the Budyko theory and deforestation experiments with climate models, showing that widespread runoff reductions caused by the indirect effect of forest-climate feedbacks can largely offset the direct effect of reduced forest cover on runoff increases. The indirect effect dominates the hydrological responses to deforestation over 63% of deforested areas worldwide. This indirect effect arises from deforestation-induced reductions in precipitation and potential evapotranspiration, which decrease and increase runoff, respectively, leading to complex patterns of runoff responses. Our findings underscore the importance of forest-climate feedbacks for improved understanding and prediction of climate and hydrological changes caused by deforestation, with profound implications for sustainable management of forests and water resources.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuai Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
- Institute of Land Surface System and Sustainable Development, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Sha Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
- Institute of Land Surface System and Sustainable Development, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| | - Bofu Yu
- School of Engineering and Built Environment, Griffith University, Nathan, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jiaxi Song
- State Key Laboratory of Earth Surface Processes and Resource Ecology, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
- Institute of Land Surface System and Sustainable Development, Faculty of Geographical Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Braga A, Laurini M. Spatial heterogeneity in climate change effects across Brazilian biomes. Sci Rep 2024; 14:16414. [PMID: 39014072 PMCID: PMC11252347 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-67244-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 07/18/2024] Open
Abstract
We present a methodology designed to study the spatial heterogeneity of climate change. Our approach involves decomposing the observed changes in temperature patterns into multiple trend, cycle, and seasonal components within a spatio-temporal model. We apply this method to test the hypothesis of a global long-term temperature trend against multiple trends in distinct biomes. Applying this methodology, we delve into the examination of heterogeneity of climate change in Brazil-a country characterized by a spectrum of climate zones. The findings challenge the notion of a global trend, revealing the presence of distinct trends in warming effects, and more accelerated trends for the Amazon and Cerrado biomes, indicating a composition between global warming and deforestation in determining changes in permanent temperature patterns.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adriano Braga
- Department of Economics, University of São Paulo, Av. dos Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 100190, Brazil
| | - Márcio Laurini
- Department of Economics, University of São Paulo, Av. dos Bandeirantes 3900, Ribeirão Preto, São Paulo, 100190, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Cheng K, Yang H, Tao S, Su Y, Guan H, Ren Y, Hu T, Li W, Xu G, Chen M, Lu X, Yang Z, Tang Y, Ma K, Fang J, Guo Q. Carbon storage through China's planted forest expansion. Nat Commun 2024; 15:4106. [PMID: 38750031 PMCID: PMC11096308 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48546-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024] Open
Abstract
China's extensive planted forests play a crucial role in carbon storage, vital for climate change mitigation. However, the complex spatiotemporal dynamics of China's planted forest area and its carbon storage remain uncaptured. Here we reveal such changes in China's planted forests from 1990 to 2020 using satellite and field data. Results show a doubling of planted forest area, a trend that intensified post-2000. These changes lead to China's planted forest carbon storage increasing from 675.6 ± 12.5 Tg C in 1990 to 1,873.1 ± 16.2 Tg C in 2020, with an average rate of ~ 40 Tg C yr-1. The area expansion of planted forests contributed ~ 53% (637.2 ± 5.4 Tg C) of the total above increased carbon storage in planted forests compared with planted forest growth. This proactive policy-driven expansion of planted forests has catalyzed a swift increase in carbon storage, aligning with China's Carbon Neutrality Target for 2060.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kai Cheng
- Institute of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System, School of Earth and Space Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Haitao Yang
- Institute of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System, School of Earth and Space Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Shengli Tao
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Yanjun Su
- State Key Laboratory of Vegetation and Environmental Change, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Hongcan Guan
- School of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, Haikou, 571737, China
| | - Yu Ren
- Institute of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System, School of Earth and Space Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Tianyu Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Vegetation and Environmental Change, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Wenkai Li
- School of Geography and Planning, Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, 510275, China
| | - Guangcai Xu
- Beijing GreenValleyTechnology Co. Ltd, Beijing, 100091, China
| | - Mengxi Chen
- Institute of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System, School of Earth and Space Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Xiancheng Lu
- Institute of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System, School of Earth and Space Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Zekun Yang
- Institute of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System, School of Earth and Space Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Yanhong Tang
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Keping Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Vegetation and Environmental Change, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100093, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
| | - Jingyun Fang
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
- Key Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes of the Ministry of Education, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Qinghua Guo
- Institute of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System, School of Earth and Space Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
- Institute of Ecology, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Hartinger SM, Palmeiro-Silva YK, Llerena-Cayo C, Blanco-Villafuerte L, Escobar LE, Diaz A, Sarmiento JH, Lescano AG, Melo O, Rojas-Rueda D, Takahashi B, Callaghan M, Chesini F, Dasgupta S, Posse CG, Gouveia N, Martins de Carvalho A, Miranda-Chacón Z, Mohajeri N, Pantoja C, Robinson EJ, Salas MF, Santiago R, Sauma E, Santos-Vega M, Scamman D, Sergeeva M, Souza de Camargo T, Sorensen C, Umaña JD, Yglesias-González M, Walawender M, Buss D, Romanello M. The 2023 Latin America report of the Lancet Countdown on health and climate change: the imperative for health-centred climate-resilient development. LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. AMERICAS 2024; 33:100746. [PMID: 38800647 PMCID: PMC11117061 DOI: 10.1016/j.lana.2024.100746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 03/27/2024] [Accepted: 04/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
In 2023, a series of climatological and political events unfolded, partly driving forward the global climate and health agenda while simultaneously exposing important disparities and vulnerabilities to climate-related events. On the policy front, a significant step forward was marked by the inaugural Health Day at COP28, acknowledging the profound impacts of climate change on health. However, the first-ever Global Stocktake showed an important gap between the current progress and the targets outlined in the Paris Agreement, underscoring the urgent need for further and decisive action. From a Latin American perspective, some questions arise: How do we achieve the change that is needed? How to address the vulnerabilities to climate change in a region with long-standing social inequities? How do we promote intersectoral collaboration to face a complex problem such as climate change? The debate is still ongoing, and in many instances, it is just starting. The renamed regional centre Lancet Countdown Latin America (previously named Lancet Countdown South America) expanded its geographical scope adding Mexico and five Central American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Panama, as a response to the need for stronger collaboration in a region with significant social disparities, including research capacities and funding. The centre is an independent and multidisciplinary collaboration that tracks the links between health and climate change in Latin America, following the global Lancet Countdown's methodologies and five domains. The Lancet Countdown Latin America work hinges on the commitment of 23 regional academic institutions, United Nations agencies, and 34 researchers who generously contribute their time and expertise. Building from the first report, the 2023 report of the Lancet Countdown Latin America, presents 34 indicators that track the relationship between health and climate change up to 2022, aiming at providing evidence to public decision-making with the purpose of improving the health and wellbeing of Latin American populations and reducing social inequities through climate actions focusing on health. This report shows that Latin American populations continue to observe a growing exposure to changing climatic conditions. A warming trend has been observed across all countries in Latin America, with severe direct impacts. In 2022, people were exposed to ambient temperatures, on average, 0.38 °C higher than in 1986-2005, with Paraguay experiencing the highest anomaly (+1.9 °C), followed by Argentina (+1.2 °C) and Uruguay (+0.9 °C) (indicator 1.1.1). In 2013-2022, infants were exposed to 248% more heatwave days and people over 65 years old were exposed to 271% more heatwave days than in 1986-2005 (indicator 1.1.2). Also, compared to 1991-2000, in 2013-2022, there were 256 and 189 additional annual hours per person, during which ambient heat posed at least moderate and high risk of heat stress during light outdoor physical activity in Latin America, respectively (indicator 1.1.3). Finally, the region had a 140% increase in heat-related mortality from 2000-2009 to 2013-2022 (indicator 1.1.4). Changes in ecosystems have led to an increased risk of wildfires, exposing individuals to very or extremely high fire danger for more extended periods (indicator 1.2.1). Additionally, the transmission potential for dengue by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes has risen by 54% from 1951-1960 to 2013-2022 (indicator 1.3), which aligns with the recent outbreaks and increasing dengue cases observed across Latin America in recent months. Based on the 2023 report of the Lancet Countdown Latin America, there are three key messages that Latin America needs to further explore and advance for a health-centred climate-resilient development. Latin American countries require intersectoral public policies that simultaneously increase climate resilience, reduce social inequities, improve population health, and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. The findings show that adaptation policies in Latin America remain weak, with a pressing need for robust vulnerability and adaptation (V&A) assessments to address climate risks effectively. Unfortunately, such assessments are scarce. Up to 2021, Brazil is the only country that has completed and officially reported a V&A to the 2021 Global Survey conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO). Argentina, Guatemala, and Panama have also conducted them, but they have not been reported (indicator 2.1.1). Similarly, efforts in developing and implementing Health National Adaptation Plans (HNAPs) are varied and limited in scope. Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay are the only countries that have an HNAP (indicator 2.1.2). Moreover, self-reported city-level climate change risk assessments are very limited in the region (indicator 2.1.3). The collaboration between meteorological and health sectors remains insufficient, with only Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and Guatemala self-reporting some level of integration (indicator 2.2.1), hindering comprehensive responses to climate-related health risks in the region. Additionally, despite the urgent need for action, there has been minimal progress in increasing urban greenspaces across the region since 2015, with only Colombia, Nicaragua, and Venezuela showing slight improvements (indicator 2.2.2). Compounding these challenges is the decrease in funding for climate change adaptation projects in Latin America, as evidenced by the 16% drop in funds allocated by the Green Climate Fund (GCF) in 2022 compared to 2021. Alarmingly, none of the funds approved in 2022 were directed toward climate change and health projects, highlighting a critical gap in addressing health-related climate risks (indicator 2.2.3). From a vulnerability perspective, the Mosquito Risk Index (MoRI) indicates an overall decrease in severe mosquito-borne disease risk in the region due to improvements in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) (indicator 2.3.1). Brazil and Paraguay were the only countries that showed an increase in this indicator. It is worth noting that significant temporal variation within and between countries still persists, suggesting inadequate preparedness for climate-related changes. Overall, population health is not solely determined by the health sector, nor are climate policies a sole responsibility of the environmental sector. More and stronger intersectoral collaboration is needed to pave development pathways that consider solid adaptation to climate change, greater reductions of GHG emissions, and that increase social equity and population health. These policies involve sectors such as finance, transport, energy, housing, health, and agriculture, requiring institutional structures and policy instruments that allow long-term intersectoral collaboration. Latin American countries need to accelerate an energy transition that prioritises people's health and wellbeing, reduces energy poverty and air pollution, and maximises health and economic gains. In Latin America, there is a notable disparity in energy transition, with electricity generation from coal increasing by an average of 2.6% from 1991-2000 to 2011-2020, posing a challenge to efforts aimed at phasing out coal (indicator 3.1.1). However, this percentage increase is conservative as it may not include all the fossil fuels for thermoelectric electricity generation, especially during climate-related events and when hydropower is affected (Panel 4). Yet, renewable energy sources have been growing, increasing by an average of 5.7% during the same period. Access to clean fuels for cooking remains a concern, with 46.3% of the rural population in Central America and 23.3% in South America lacking access to clean fuels in 2022 (indicator 3.1.2). It is crucial to highlight the concerning overreliance on fossil fuels, particularly liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), as a primary cooking fuel. A significant majority of Latin American populations, approximately 74.6%, rely on LPG for cooking. Transitioning to cleaner heating and cooking alternatives could also have a health benefit by reducing household air pollution-related mortality. Fossil fuels continue to dominate road transport energy in Latin America, accounting for 96%, although some South American countries are increasing the use of biofuels (indicator 3.1.3). Premature mortality attributable to fossil-fuel-derived PM2.5 has shown varied trends across countries, increasing by 3.9% from 2005 to 2020 across Latin America, which corresponds to 123.5 premature deaths per million people (indicator 3.2.1). The Latin American countries with the highest premature mortality rate attributable to PM2.5 in 2020 were Chile, Peru, Brazil, Colombia, Mexico, and Paraguay. Of the total premature deaths attributable to PM2.5 in 2020, 19.1% was from transport, 12.3% from households, 11.6% from industry, and 11% from agriculture. From emission and capture of GHG perspective, commodity-driven deforestation and expansion of agricultural land remain major contributors to tree cover loss in the region, accounting for around 80% of the total loss (indicator 3.3). Additionally, animal-based food production in Latin America contributes 85% to agricultural CO2 equivalent emissions, with Argentina, Brazil, Panama, Paraguay, and Uruguay ranking highest in per capita emissions (indicator 3.4.1). From a health perspective, in 2020, approximately 870,000 deaths were associated with imbalanced diets, of which 155,000 (18%) were linked to high intake of red and processed meat and dairy products (indicator 3.4.2). Energy transition in Latin America is still in its infancy, and as a result, millions of people are currently exposed to dangerous levels of air pollution and energy poverty (i.e., lack of access to essential energy sources or services). As shown in this report, the levels of air pollution, outdoors and indoors, are a significant problem in the whole region, with marked disparities between urban and rural areas. In 2022, Peru, Chile, Mexico, Guatemala, Colombia, El Salvador, Brazil, Uruguay, Honduras, Panama, and Nicaragua were in the top 100 most polluted countries globally. Transitioning to cleaner sources of energy, phasing out fossil fuels, and promoting better energy efficiency in the industrial and housing sectors are not only climate mitigation measures but also huge health and economic opportunities for more prosperous and healthy societies. Latin American countries need to increase climate finance through permanent fiscal commitments and multilateral development banks to pave climate-resilient development pathways. Climate change poses significant economic costs, with investments in mitigation and adaptation measures progressing slowly. In 2022, economic losses due to weather-related extreme events in Latin America were US$15.6 billion -an amount mainly driven by floods and landslides in Brazil-representing 0.28% of Latin America's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) (indicator 4.1.1). In contrast to high-income countries, most of these losses lack insurance coverage, imposing a substantial financial strain on affected families and governments. Heat-related mortality among individuals aged 65 and older in Latin America reached alarming levels, with losses exceeding the equivalent of the average income of 451,000 people annually (indicator 4.1.2). Moreover, the total potential income loss due to heat-related labour capacity reduction amounted to 1.34% of regional GDP, disproportionately affecting the agriculture and construction sectors (indicator 4.1.3). Additionally, the economic toll of premature mortality from air pollution was substantial, equivalent to a significant portion of regional GDP (0.61%) (indicator 4.1.4). On a positive note, clean energy investments in the region increased in 2022, surpassing fossil fuel investments. However, in 2020, all countries reviewed continued to offer net-negative carbon prices, revealing fossil fuel subsidies totalling US$23 billion. Venezuela had the highest net subsidies relative to current health expenditure (123%), followed by Argentina (10.5%), Bolivia (10.3%), Ecuador (8.3%), and Chile (5.6%) (indicator 4.2.1). Fossil fuel-based energy is today more expensive than renewable energy. Fossil fuel burning drives climate change and damages the environment on which people depend, and air pollution derived from the burning of fossil fuels causes seven million premature deaths each year worldwide, along with a substantial burden of disease. Transitioning to sustainable, zero-emission energy sources, fostering healthier food systems, and expediting adaptation efforts promise not only environmental benefits but also significant economic gains. However, to implement mitigation and adaptation policies that also improve social wellbeing and prosperity, stronger and solid financial systems are needed. Climate finance in Latin American countries is scarce and strongly depends on political cycles, which threatens adequate responses to the current and future challenges. Progress on the climate agenda is lagging behind the urgent pace required. While engagement with the intersection of health and climate change is increasing, government involvement remains inadequate. Newspaper coverage of health and climate change has been on the rise, peaking in 2022, yet the proportion of climate change articles discussing health has declined over time (indicator 5.1). Although there has been significant growth in the number of scientific papers focusing on Latin America, it still represents less than 4% of global publications on the subject (indicator 5.3). And, while health was mentioned by most Latin American countries at the UN General Debate in 2022, only a few addressed the intersection of health and climate change, indicating a lack of awareness at the governmental level (indicator 5.4). The 2023 Lancet Countdown Latin America report underscores the cascading and compounding health impacts of anthropogenic climate change, marked by increased exposure to heatwaves, wildfires, and vector-borne diseases. Specifically, for Latin America, the report emphasises three critical messages: the urgent action to implement intersectoral public policies that enhance climate resilience across the region; the pressing need to prioritise an energy transition that focuses on health co-benefits and wellbeing, and lastly, that need for increasing climate finance by committing to sustained fiscal efforts and engaging with multilateral development banks. By understanding the problems, addressing the gaps, and taking decisive action, Latin America can navigate the challenges of climate change, fostering a more sustainable and resilient future for its population. Spanish and Portuguese translated versions of this Summary can be found in Appendix B and C, respectively. The full translated report in Spanish is available in Appendix D.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stella M. Hartinger
- Centro Latino Americano de Excelencia en Cambio Climático y Salud, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Yasna K. Palmeiro-Silva
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
- Centro de Políticas Públicas UC, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Camila Llerena-Cayo
- Centro Latino Americano de Excelencia en Cambio Climático y Salud, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Luciana Blanco-Villafuerte
- Centro Latino Americano de Excelencia en Cambio Climático y Salud, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Luis E. Escobar
- Department of Fish and Wildlife Conservation, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, USA
| | - Avriel Diaz
- Columbia University, International Research Institute for Climate and Society New York, USA
| | | | - Andres G. Lescano
- Centro Latino Americano de Excelencia en Cambio Climático y Salud, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Oscar Melo
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Cambio Global, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - David Rojas-Rueda
- Environmental and Radiological Health Sciences, Colorado State University, CO, USA
- Colorado School of Public Health, Colorado State University, CO, USA
| | - Bruno Takahashi
- Departament of Communication, Michigan State University, MI, USA
| | - Max Callaghan
- Mercator Research Institute on Global Commons and Climate Change, Berlin, Germany
| | - Francisco Chesini
- Departamento de Salud Pública, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Shouro Dasgupta
- Centro Euro-Mediterraneo sui Cambiamenti Climatici (CMCC), Venice, Italy
- Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), London, UK
| | - Carolina Gil Posse
- Facultad de Ciencias Sociales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nelson Gouveia
- Departamento de Medicina Preventiva, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | | | - Nahid Mohajeri
- Institute of Environmental Design and Engineering, Bartlett School of Environment, Energy and Resources, University College London, London, UK
| | - Chrissie Pantoja
- Nicholas School of the Environment and Sanford School of Policy Policy, Duke University, Durham, NC, USA
- Departamento Académico de Economía, Universidad del Pacífico, Lima, Peru
| | - Elizabeth J.Z. Robinson
- Grantham Research Institute on Climate Change and the Environment, London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), London, UK
| | | | - Raquel Santiago
- Faculdade de Nutrição, Universidade Federal de Goiás, Goiânia, Goiás, Brazil
| | - Enzo Sauma
- Engineering Faculty, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Mauricio Santos-Vega
- Grupo de Biología y Matemática Computacional (BIOMAC), Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
- Departamento Ciencias Biológicas, Universidad de Los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Daniel Scamman
- Institute for Sustainable Resources, University College London, London, UK
| | | | | | - Cecilia Sorensen
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Mailman School of Public Health, Columbia University, Department of Emergency Medicine, Columbia Irving Medical Center, NY, USA
| | - Juan D. Umaña
- Grupo de Biología y Matemática Computacional (BIOMAC), Universidad de los Andes, Bogotá, Colombia
| | - Marisol Yglesias-González
- Centro Latino Americano de Excelencia en Cambio Climático y Salud, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Lima, Peru
| | - Maria Walawender
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Daniel Buss
- Pan American Health Organization, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Marina Romanello
- Institute for Global Health, University College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Fletcher C, Ripple WJ, Newsome T, Barnard P, Beamer K, Behl A, Bowen J, Cooney M, Crist E, Field C, Hiser K, Karl DM, King DA, Mann ME, McGregor DP, Mora C, Oreskes N, Wilson M. Earth at risk: An urgent call to end the age of destruction and forge a just and sustainable future. PNAS NEXUS 2024; 3:pgae106. [PMID: 38566756 PMCID: PMC10986754 DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgae106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Human development has ushered in an era of converging crises: climate change, ecological destruction, disease, pollution, and socioeconomic inequality. This review synthesizes the breadth of these interwoven emergencies and underscores the urgent need for comprehensive, integrated action. Propelled by imperialism, extractive capitalism, and a surging population, we are speeding past Earth's material limits, destroying critical ecosystems, and triggering irreversible changes in biophysical systems that underpin the Holocene climatic stability which fostered human civilization. The consequences of these actions are disproportionately borne by vulnerable populations, further entrenching global inequities. Marine and terrestrial biomes face critical tipping points, while escalating challenges to food and water access foreshadow a bleak outlook for global security. Against this backdrop of Earth at risk, we call for a global response centered on urgent decarbonization, fostering reciprocity with nature, and implementing regenerative practices in natural resource management. We call for the elimination of detrimental subsidies, promotion of equitable human development, and transformative financial support for lower income nations. A critical paradigm shift must occur that replaces exploitative, wealth-oriented capitalism with an economic model that prioritizes sustainability, resilience, and justice. We advocate a global cultural shift that elevates kinship with nature and communal well-being, underpinned by the recognition of Earth's finite resources and the interconnectedness of its inhabitants. The imperative is clear: to navigate away from this precipice, we must collectively harness political will, economic resources, and societal values to steer toward a future where human progress does not come at the cost of ecological integrity and social equity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles Fletcher
- School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| | - William J Ripple
- Department of Forest Ecosystems and Society, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Thomas Newsome
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Phoebe Barnard
- Center for Environmental Politics and School of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98195, USA
- African Climate and Development Initiative and FitzPatrick Institute, University of Cape Town, Cape Town 7700, South Africa
| | - Kamanamaikalani Beamer
- Hui ‘Āina Momona Program, Richardson School of Law, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
- Hawai‘inuiākea School of Hawaiian Knowledge, Kamakakūokalani Center for Hawaiian Studies, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| | - Aishwarya Behl
- School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| | - Jay Bowen
- Institute of American Indian Arts, Santa Fe, NM 87508, USA
- Upper Skagit Tribe, Sedro Woolley, WA 98284, USA
| | - Michael Cooney
- School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology, Hawai‘i Natural Energy Institute, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| | - Eileen Crist
- Department of Science Technology and Society, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA 24060, USA
| | - Christopher Field
- Doerr School for Sustainability, Stanford Woods Institute for the Environment, Stanford University, Stanford, CA 94305, USA
| | - Krista Hiser
- Department of Languages, Linguistics, and Literature, Kapi‘olani Community College, Honolulu, HI 96816, USA
- Global Council for Science and the Environment, Washington, DC 20006, USA
| | - David M Karl
- Department of Oceanography, School of Ocean and Earth Science and Technology, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
- Daniel K. Inouye Center for Microbial Oceanography, Research and Education, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| | - David A King
- Department of Chemistry, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 1DQ, UK
| | - Michael E Mann
- Department of Earth and Environmental Science, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Davianna P McGregor
- Department of Ethnic Studies, Center for Oral History, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| | - Camilo Mora
- Department of Geography and Environment, University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
| | - Naomi Oreskes
- Department of the History of Science, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
| | - Michael Wilson
- Associate Justice, Hawaii Supreme Court (retired), Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Yang G, Su C, Zhang H, Zhang X, Liu Y. Tree-level landscape transitions and changes in carbon storage throughout the mine life cycle. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:166896. [PMID: 37717743 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/14/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/05/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
Opencast mining activities destroy native vegetation, directly impacting the carbon sequestration capacity of the regional ecosystem. Restoring tree species have significant impacts on carbon storage. However, changes in carbon storage across tree-level landscape and the impact of tree-level landscape transitions on carbon storage remain poorly described in the literature, and this information is urgently needed to support management decisions. In this study, we combined field data and remote sensing techniques to create field data-driven maps of the tree-level landscape. This enabled the assessment of carbon storage and quantification of the impact of tree-level landscape transitions on carbon storage. We founded that carbon storage rises in initial/stable stages, decreases in development stage during mining expansion and reclamation. The choice of restoration tree species significantly influenced carbon storage. Pinus tabuliformis-R. pseudoacacia accumulated more carbon storage, making it a more suitable model for ecological reclamation of Pingshuo opencast mine. Furthermore, changes in carbon storage are influenced by land-use policies. Land-use policies and reclamation efforts counterbalance carbon loss associated with construction. Various tree-level landscape transitions were examined, with Pinus tabuliformis transitions notably affecting carbon storage, offering insights for ecological reclamation planning. Our research provides a reference for carbon storage assessment in opencast mining areas, enhances understanding of carbon storage changes in mining areas, assists in formulating ecological reclamation plans, and contributes to the "dual‑carbon" goals and climate change mitigation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guoting Yang
- Institute of loess plateau, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Chao Su
- Institute of loess plateau, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Hong Zhang
- Institute of loess plateau, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China; College of Environment and Resource, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China.
| | - Xiaoyu Zhang
- College of Environment and Resource, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China
| | - Yong Liu
- Institute of loess plateau, Shanxi University, Taiyuan 030006, China.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Hao Y, Liu H, Li J, Mu L, Hu X. Environmental tipping points for global soil carbon fixation microorganisms. iScience 2023; 26:108251. [PMID: 37965139 PMCID: PMC10641746 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Carbon fixation microorganisms (CFMs) are important components of the soil carbon cycle. However, the global distribution of CFMs and whether they will exceed the environmental tipping points remain unclear. According to the machine learning models, total carbon content, nitrogen fertilizer, and precipitation play dominant roles in CFM abundance. Obvious stimulation and inhibition effects on CFM abundance only happened at low levels of total carbon and precipitation, where the tipping points were 6.1 g·kg-1 and 22.38 mm, respectively. The abundance of CFMs in response to nitrogen fertilizer changed from positive to negative (tipping point at 9.45 kg ha-1·y-1). Approximately 46% of CFM abundance decline happened in cropland at 2100. Our work presents the distribution of carbon-fixing microorganisms on a global scale and then points out the sensitive areas with significant abundance changes. The previously described information will provide references for future soil quality prediction and policy decision-making.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yueqi Hao
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria (Ministry of Education)/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300080, China
| | - Hao Liu
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria (Ministry of Education)/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300080, China
| | - Jiawei Li
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria (Ministry of Education)/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300080, China
| | - Li Mu
- Key Laboratory for Environmental Factors Control of Agro-product Quality Safety (Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs), Tianjin Key Laboratory of Agro-environment and Safe-product, Institute of Agro-environmental Protection, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China
| | - Xiangang Hu
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria (Ministry of Education)/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300080, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Butt EW, Baker JCA, Bezerra FGS, von Randow C, Aguiar APD, Spracklen DV. Amazon deforestation causes strong regional warming. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2023; 120:e2309123120. [PMID: 37903256 PMCID: PMC10636322 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2309123120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Tropical deforestation impacts the climate through complex land-atmosphere interactions causing local and regional warming. However, whilst the impacts of deforestation on local temperature are well understood, the regional (nonlocal) response is poorly quantified. Here, we used remote-sensed observations of forest loss and dry season land-surface temperature during the period 2001 to 2020 to demonstrate that deforestation of the Amazon caused strong warming at distances up to 100 km away from the forest loss. We apply a machine learning approach to show nonlocal warming due to forest loss at 2-100 km length scales increases the warming due to deforestation by more than a factor 4, from 0.16 K to 0.71 K for each 10-percentage points of forest loss. We estimate that rapid future deforestation under a strong inequality scenario could cause dry season warming of 0.96 K across Mato Grosso state in southern Brazil over the period 2020 to 2050. Reducing deforestation could reduce future warming caused by forest loss to 0.4 K. Our results demonstrate the contribution of tropical deforestation to regional climate warming and the potential for reduced deforestation to deliver regional climate adaptation and resilience with important implications for sustainable management of the Amazon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edward W. Butt
- Institute for Climate and Atmospheric Science, School of Earth and Environment, University of Leeds, LeedsLS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | - Jessica C. A. Baker
- Institute for Climate and Atmospheric Science, School of Earth and Environment, University of Leeds, LeedsLS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| | | | - Celso von Randow
- INPE - Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais, São José dos Campos12227-010, Brazil
| | - Ana P. D. Aguiar
- INPE - Instituto Nacional de Pesquisas Espaciais, São José dos Campos12227-010, Brazil
- Stockholm Resilience Centre, Stockholm University, Stockholm106 91, Sweden
| | - Dominick V. Spracklen
- Institute for Climate and Atmospheric Science, School of Earth and Environment, University of Leeds, LeedsLS2 9JT, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Nguyen HD, Youn YC, Bui DT, Nguyen THY, Dinh DT, Ho QT. Optimal forest management for carbon sequestration, timber, and bioenergy production in Vietnam using an extended full-cycle carbon accounting method. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:101192-101207. [PMID: 37648918 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-29439-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
Using an extended full-cycle carbon model from the Faustmann framework, which allows for management strategies of several uses concurrently implemented in the same area of forest, this paper investigates the selection of management objectives that are beneficial and optimal for forest plantations in Vietnam. Three scenarios are considered: Scenario 1 investigates the management objective of maximizing the land economic value (LEV) of timber as a single production. Scenario 2 investigates the joint production of timber and bioenergy sources. Scenario 3 analyzes the joint production of timber, bioenergy production, and carbon sequestration. The findings reveal that if growers pursue a timber management objective (Scenario 1), the farming business only provides considerable benefits under the government-subsidized credit scheme of 8.4%. For a higher non-subsidized interest rate of 15.24% of commercial banks, such gains reduce substantially and become negative value under the mean interest rate of 19.08% of private credit sources. Altering the management objective to a joint production of timber and raw bioenergy production (Scenario 2) will boost the LEV by a moderate level, but at the expense of timber production and thus carbon stock. However, the reduction tendency of timber and carbon balance is not substantial due mainly to the relatively small proportion of bioenergy production compared to timber production; therefore, decision-making frameworks targeting carbon uptake may be capable of incorporating such levels of confliction. Further internalizing the carbon value of the forest into management objectives generally leads to a longer rotation length, thus improving both carbon sequestration and income gains. Shifting the current timber-dominant management objective to a joint production of timber and bioenergy sources, or, alternatively, a joint production of timber, bioenergy production, and carbon sequestration when the carbon market is emerging, is a good alternative strategy for forest management in Vietnam.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huu-Dung Nguyen
- National Economics University, 207 Giai Phong Str, Hanoi, Vietnam.
| | | | - Duc Tho Bui
- National Economics University, 207 Giai Phong Str, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Duc Truong Dinh
- National Economics University, 207 Giai Phong Str, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Quoc Thong Ho
- University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Li T, Cheng H, Li Y, Mou Z, Zhu X, Wu W, Zhang J, Kuang L, Wang J, Hui D, Lambers H, Sardans J, Peñuelas J, Ren H, Mohti AB, Liang N, Liu Z. Divergent accumulation of amino sugars and lignins mediated by soil functional carbon pools under tropical forest conversion. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 881:163204. [PMID: 37044342 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Revised: 03/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
Tropical primary forests are being destroyed at an alarming rate and converted for other land uses which is expected to greatly influence soil carbon (C) cycling. However, our understanding of how tropical forest conversions affect the accumulation of compounds in soil functional C pools remains unclear. Here, we collected soils from primary forests (PF), secondary forests (SF), oil-palm (OP), and rubber plantations (RP), and assessed the accumulation of plant- and microbial-derived compounds within soil organic carbon (SOC), particulate (POC) and mineral-associated (MAOC) organic C. PF conversion to RP greatly decreased SOC, POC, and MAOC concentrations, whereas conversion to SF increased POC concentrations and decreased MAOC concentrations, and conversion to OP only increased POC concentrations. PF conversion to RP decreased lignin concentrations and increased amino sugar concentrations in SOC pools which increased the stability of SOC, whereas conversion to SF only increased the lignin concentrations in POC, and conversion to OP just increased lignin concentrations in POC and decreased it in MAOC. We observed divergent dynamics of amino sugars (decrease) and lignin (increase) in SOC with increasing SOC. Only lignin concentrations increased in POC with increasing POC and amino sugars concentrations decreased in MAOC with increasing MAOC. Conversion to RP significantly decreased soil enzyme activities and microbial biomasses. Lignin accumulation was associated with microbial properties, whereas amino sugar accumulation was mainly associated with soil nutrients and stoichiometries. These results suggest that the divergent accumulation of plant- and microbial-derived C in SOC was delivered by the distribution and original composition of functional C pools under forest conversions. Forest conversions changed the formation and stabilization processes of SOC in the long run which was associated with converted plantations and management. The important roles of soil nutrients and stoichiometry also provide a natural-based solution to enhance SOC sequestration via nutrient management in tropical forests.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tengteng Li
- Key Laboratory of Vegetation Restoration and Management of Degraded Ecosystems/CAS Engineering Laboratory for Vegetation Ecosystem Restoration on Islands and Coastal Zones, South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Botany, South China Botanical Garden, Guangzhou 510650, China; South China National Botanical Garden, Guangzhou 510650, China
| | - Hao Cheng
- State Key Laboratory of Urban and Regional Ecology, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yue Li
- Key Laboratory of Vegetation Restoration and Management of Degraded Ecosystems/CAS Engineering Laboratory for Vegetation Ecosystem Restoration on Islands and Coastal Zones, South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Botany, South China Botanical Garden, Guangzhou 510650, China; South China National Botanical Garden, Guangzhou 510650, China
| | - Zhijian Mou
- Key Laboratory of Vegetation Restoration and Management of Degraded Ecosystems/CAS Engineering Laboratory for Vegetation Ecosystem Restoration on Islands and Coastal Zones, South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Botany, South China Botanical Garden, Guangzhou 510650, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xiaomin Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Vegetation Restoration and Management of Degraded Ecosystems/CAS Engineering Laboratory for Vegetation Ecosystem Restoration on Islands and Coastal Zones, South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Botany, South China Botanical Garden, Guangzhou 510650, China; South China National Botanical Garden, Guangzhou 510650, China
| | - Wenjia Wu
- Key Laboratory of Vegetation Restoration and Management of Degraded Ecosystems/CAS Engineering Laboratory for Vegetation Ecosystem Restoration on Islands and Coastal Zones, South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Botany, South China Botanical Garden, Guangzhou 510650, China; South China National Botanical Garden, Guangzhou 510650, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Vegetation Restoration and Management of Degraded Ecosystems/CAS Engineering Laboratory for Vegetation Ecosystem Restoration on Islands and Coastal Zones, South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Botany, South China Botanical Garden, Guangzhou 510650, China; South China National Botanical Garden, Guangzhou 510650, China
| | - Luhui Kuang
- Key Laboratory of Vegetation Restoration and Management of Degraded Ecosystems/CAS Engineering Laboratory for Vegetation Ecosystem Restoration on Islands and Coastal Zones, South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Botany, South China Botanical Garden, Guangzhou 510650, China; South China National Botanical Garden, Guangzhou 510650, China
| | - Jun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Vegetation Restoration and Management of Degraded Ecosystems/CAS Engineering Laboratory for Vegetation Ecosystem Restoration on Islands and Coastal Zones, South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Botany, South China Botanical Garden, Guangzhou 510650, China; South China National Botanical Garden, Guangzhou 510650, China
| | - Dafeng Hui
- Department of Biological Sciences, Tennessee State University, Nashville, TN 37209, USA
| | - Hans Lambers
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6009, Australia
| | - Jordi Sardans
- CSIC, Global Ecology Unit CREAF-CSIC-UAB, Cerdanyola del Valles, Catalonia 08193, Spain; CREAF, Cerdanyola del Valles, Catalonia 08193, Spain
| | - Josep Peñuelas
- CSIC, Global Ecology Unit CREAF-CSIC-UAB, Cerdanyola del Valles, Catalonia 08193, Spain; CREAF, Cerdanyola del Valles, Catalonia 08193, Spain
| | - Hai Ren
- Key Laboratory of Vegetation Restoration and Management of Degraded Ecosystems/CAS Engineering Laboratory for Vegetation Ecosystem Restoration on Islands and Coastal Zones, South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Botany, South China Botanical Garden, Guangzhou 510650, China; South China National Botanical Garden, Guangzhou 510650, China
| | - Azian Binti Mohti
- Forestry Environment Division, Forest Research Institute Malaysia, 52109 Kepong, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Naishen Liang
- Earth System Division, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8506, Japan.
| | - Zhanfeng Liu
- Key Laboratory of Vegetation Restoration and Management of Degraded Ecosystems/CAS Engineering Laboratory for Vegetation Ecosystem Restoration on Islands and Coastal Zones, South China Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China; Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Botany, South China Botanical Garden, Guangzhou 510650, China; South China National Botanical Garden, Guangzhou 510650, China.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Yonghong S, Fandi L, Gaofeng Z, Zhang K, Qi Z. The biophysical climate mitigation potential of riparian forest ecosystems in arid Northwest China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 862:160856. [PMID: 36521605 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2022] [Revised: 10/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Forests influence climate through both the biochemical and biophysical processes, and the impacts of the latter on local climate may be much larger than the former. However, the biophysical effects of afforestation in arid regions have received little attention compared with afforestation in the tropic, temperate and boreal zones. In this study, we combined in situ eddy covariance flux measurements from a neighboring pairs of forested and background desert sites with the decomposed temperature metric (DTM) method to characterize the impacts of arid forests on surface temperature (Ts). A clear-sky, one-dimensional planetary boundary layer (PBL) model was used to estimate the impacts of afforestation on state of regional climate. We showed that despite absorbing more net radiation (35.4 W m-2) the riparian forests tended to cool Ts (-1.28 °C) on annual basis, but with a significant seasonality. Specifically, afforestation may lead to a net cooling effect from March to September and a slightly warming effect in other months. The DTM method revealed that evapotranspiration played a dominant role in cooling surface temperature, while surface albedo (α) and incoming longwave radiation (L↓) acted together to increase forest surface temperature. From June to September, a shallower, cooler and wetter boundary layer was developed over the forest due to high plant transpiration. In other months, the PBL was slightly deeper and warmer over the forest than that over the desert. Therefore, the riparian forests were important in moderating warming trends in arid regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Su Yonghong
- Key Laboratory of Eco-hydrology of Inland River Basin (CAS), Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, CAS, Lanzhou 730000, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
| | - Luo Fandi
- School of Life Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China.
| | - Zhu Gaofeng
- College of Earth and Environmental Sciences, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Kun Zhang
- Department of Mathematics, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China; School of Biological Sciences, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Zhang Qi
- Key Laboratory of Eco-hydrology of Inland River Basin (CAS), Northwest Institute of Eco-Environment and Resources, CAS, Lanzhou 730000, China
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Smith C, Baker JCA, Spracklen DV. Tropical deforestation causes large reductions in observed precipitation. Nature 2023; 615:270-275. [PMID: 36859548 PMCID: PMC9995269 DOI: 10.1038/s41586-022-05690-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 03/03/2023]
Abstract
Tropical forests play a critical role in the hydrological cycle and can influence local and regional precipitation1. Previous work has assessed the impacts of tropical deforestation on precipitation, but these efforts have been largely limited to case studies2. A wider analysis of interactions between deforestation and precipitation-and especially how any such interactions might vary across spatial scales-is lacking. Here we show reduced precipitation over deforested regions across the tropics. Our results arise from a pan-tropical assessment of the impacts of 2003-2017 forest loss on precipitation using satellite, station-based and reanalysis datasets. The effect of deforestation on precipitation increased at larger scales, with satellite datasets showing that forest loss caused robust reductions in precipitation at scales greater than 50 km. The greatest declines in precipitation occurred at 200 km, the largest scale we explored, for which 1 percentage point of forest loss reduced precipitation by 0.25 ± 0.1 mm per month. Reanalysis and station-based products disagree on the direction of precipitation responses to forest loss, which we attribute to sparse in situ tropical measurements. We estimate that future deforestation in the Congo will reduce local precipitation by 8-10% in 2100. Our findings provide a compelling argument for tropical forest conservation to support regional climate resilience.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Smith
- School of Earth and Environment, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK.
| | - J C A Baker
- School of Earth and Environment, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - D V Spracklen
- School of Earth and Environment, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Cheng F, Tian J, He J, He H, Liu G, Zhang Z, Zhou L. The spatial and temporal distribution of China’s forest carbon. Front Ecol Evol 2023. [DOI: 10.3389/fevo.2023.1110594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionChina’s forests have sequestrated a significant amount of carbon over the past two decades. However, it is not clear whether China’s forests will be able to continue to have as much carbon sequestration potential capacity in the future.MethodsIn order to research China’s forest carbon storage and carbon sequestration potential capacities at spatial and temporal scales, we built a digital forest model for each province of China using the data from The China Forest Resources Report (2014– 2018) and calculated the carbon storage capacity and sequestration potential capacity of each province with the current management practices without considering natural successions.ResultsThe results showed that the current forest carbon storage is 10.0 Pg C, and the carbon sequestration potential in the next 40 years (from year 2019 to 2058) will be 5.04 Pg C. Since immature forests account for the majority of current forests, the carbon sequestration capacity of the forest was also high (0.202 Pg C year−1). However, the forest carbon storage reached the maximum with the increase of stand maturity. At this time, if scenarios such as afforestation and reforestation, human and natural disturbances, and natural succession are not considered, the carbon sequestration capacity of forests will continue to decrease. After 90 years, all stands will develop into mature and over-mature forests, and the forest carbon sequestration capacity is 0.008 Pg year−1; and the carbon sequestration rate is ~4% of what it is nowadays. The change trend of forest carbon in each province is consistent with that of the country. In addition, considering the large forest coverage area in China, the differences in tree species and growing conditions, the forest carbon storage and carbon sequestration capacities among provinces were different. The growth rate of carbon density in high-latitude provinces (such as Heilongjiang, Jilin, and Inner Mongolia) was lower than that in the south (Guangdong, Guangxi, or Hunan), but the forest carbon potential was higher.DiscussionPlanning and implementing targeted forest management strategies is the key to increasing forest carbon storage and extending the service time of forest carbon sinks in provinces. In order to reach the national carbon neutrality goals, we recommend that each province have an informative strategic forest management plan.
Collapse
|
22
|
Pathways for Sustainable Economic Benefits and Green Economies in Light of the State of World Forests 2022. ANTHROPOCENE SCIENCE 2022. [PMCID: PMC9559158 DOI: 10.1007/s44177-022-00041-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
23
|
Murillo-Sandoval PJ, Clerici N, Correa-Ayram C. Rapid loss in landscape connectivity after the peace agreement in the Andes-Amazon region. Glob Ecol Conserv 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.gecco.2022.e02205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022] Open
|
24
|
Abstract
Frequent land use change has generally been considered as a consequence of human activities. Here, we revealed the land use volatility process in northern Southeast Asia (including parts of Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and China) from 2000 to 2018 with LandTrendr in the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform based on the Normalized Burning Index (NBR). The result showed that land use volatility with similar degrees had very obvious aggregation characteristics in time and space in the study area, and the time for the occurrence of land use volatility in adjacent areas was often relatively close. This trend will become more obvious with the intensity of land use volatility. At the same time, land use volatility also has obvious spillover effects, and strong land use volatility will drive changes in the surrounding land. If combined with the land use/cover types, which are closely related to human activities that could have more severe land use volatility, and with the increase of the volatility intensity, the proportion of the land use type with strong land use volatility will gradually increase. Revealing the land use volatility process has a possibility to deepen the understanding of land use change and to help formulate land use policy.
Collapse
|
25
|
Effects of Driving Factors on Forest Aboveground Biomass (AGB) in China’s Loess Plateau by Using Spatial Regression Models. REMOTE SENSING 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/rs14122842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Forests are the main body of carbon sequestration in terrestrial ecosystems and forest aboveground biomass (AGB) is an important manifestation of forest carbon sequestration. Reasonable and accurate quantification of the relationship between AGB and its driving factors is of great importance for increasing the biomass and function of forests. Remote sensing observations and field measurements can be used to estimate AGB in large areas. To explore the applicability of the panel data models in AGB and its driving factors, we compared the results of panel data models (spatial error model and spatial lag model) with those of geographically weighted regression (GWR) and ordinary least squares (OLS) to quantify the relationship between AGB and its driving factors. Furthermore, we estimated the tree height, diameter at breast height, canopy cover (CC) and species diversity index (Shannon–Wiener index) of Robinia pseudoacacia plantations in Changwu on the Loess Plateau using field data and remote sensing images by a random forest model and estimated soil organic carbon (SOC) contents using laboratory data by ordinary kriging (OK) interpolation. We estimated AGB using the already estimated tree height and diameter at breast height combined with the allometric growth equation. In this study, we estimated SOC contents by OK interpolation, and the accuracy R2 values for each soil layer were greater than 0.81. We estimated diameter at breast height (DBH), CC, SW and tree height (TH) using the random forest, and the accuracy R2 values were 0.85, 0.82, 0.76 and 0.68, respectively. We estimated AGB with random forest and the allometric growth equation and found that the average AGB was 55.80 t/ha. The OLS results showed that the residuals of the OLS regression exhibited obvious spatial correlations and rejected OLS applications. GWR, SEM and SLM were used for spatial regression analysis, and SEM was the best model for explaining the relationship between AGB and its driving factors. We also found that AGB was significantly positively correlated with CC, SW, and 0–60 cm SOC content (p < 0.05) and significantly negatively correlated with slope aspect (p < 0.01). This study provides a new idea for studying the relationship between AGB and its driving factors and provides a basis for practical forest management, increasing biomass, and giving full play to the role of carbon sequestration.
Collapse
|