Abstract

SANQUETTA, C. R.; DALLA CORTE, A. P.  and  BENEDET MAAS, G. C.. The role of forests in climate change. Quebracho (Santiago del Estero) [online]. 2011, vol.19, n.2, pp.84-96. ISSN 1851-3026.

This paper presents the most current research on the forests' role in climate change. We begin with a review of global forest resources. We then discuss carbon stocks in forests and global dynamics, showing that South America accounts for 28.76% of the world's total stored carbon, with a total of 187,653 million tons (Mt). Between 1990 and 2010, 20,201 Mt of carbon were lost, reducing the carbon stored from 672,571 to 652,371 Mt. South America suffered the largest net loss in forest area at 4,213 million hectares (Mha) per year between 1990 and 2000, and 3,997 million hectares per year between 2000 and 2010 and consequently, significant elevations of CO₂emissions. These findings demonstrate the important role of forests in the face of climate change, either as vectors or victims of the problem. As vectors, forests contribute to global warming through deforestation, burning, decomposition and emissions by soils. As victims, forests need to adapt to a world of climate change worsened by global warming. However, forests may be the best solution to tackle global warming. The conservation of forests prevents emissions of greenhouse gases. Reforestation allows the removal of CO₂ from the atmosphere by photosynthesis. The use of wood as a substitute for other raw materials reduces emissions and sequesters carbon in end products. We conclude with an account of the international negotiations on global climate change and the inclusion of forests in this context.

Keywords : Carbon sequestration; Carbon emissions; Carbon storage and dynamics.

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