Background
- Climate change mitigation relies heavily on carbon sequestration through trees.
- All trees help absorb CO₂, but where they are planted determines their effectiveness.
- The new study (npj Climate Action, University of California) finds tropical regions most effective for climate benefits.
Relevance: GS 3(Environment and Ecology)
Key Findings
- Higher carbon uptake: Tropics = year-round growth → higher photosynthesis & biomass.
- Evapotranspiration effect: Trees cool the atmosphere by releasing water vapour.
- Like sweating in humans – reduces local/regional temperatures.
- Solar radiation absorption: Trees reduce amount of sunlight hitting Earth’s surface → cooling effect.
- Fire resistance: Tropical savannas & trees more resistant to fire than grasses.
- Comparative impact: Planting in tropics > planting in temperate regions for climate benefits.
Significance for India
- India lies in the tropical belt → high potential for nature-based climate solutions.
- Supports India’s NDC commitments (Paris Agreement).
- Contributes to afforestation goals under schemes like National Afforestation Programme and Green India Mission.
- Direct link to SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
Challenges / Limitations
- Monoculture plantations may reduce biodiversity despite carbon gains.
- Land conflicts: afforestation vs agriculture/habitation.
- Maintenance: Without community participation, plantations often fail.
- Ecological mismatch: Planting non-native species can harm local ecosystems.
Way Forward / Policy Suggestions
- Prioritise tropical afforestation & agroforestry.
- Focus on native species for biodiversity + resilience.
- Link with carbon markets / climate finance to fund large-scale plantation.
- Community-based forest management to ensure protection and maintenance.
