Esej o Carbon Sequestration: The Role of Old-Growth Forests in Climate Policy - 100 slow

Preserving Ancient Carbon Sinks

Primary forests represent irreplaceable reservoirs of terrestrial carbon, functioning as critical components of effective climate mitigation strategies. Unlike younger plantations, these ancient ecosystems sequester vast quantities of atmospheric carbon within their complex biomass and deep soil layers. Robust climate policy must prioritize the protection of existing woodlands over mere reforestation, as the removal of mature trees triggers a catastrophic release of centuries-old stored carbon. Furthermore, these habitats continue to actively capture greenhouse gases even in late-successional stages. Consequently, securing these natural assets is fundamental to achieving net-zero targets and ensuring long-term ecological stability against anthropogenic warming.

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