The Amazon Rainforest: A Crucial Carbon Sink at Risk

BRASILIA – The Amazon rainforest stores the equivalent of almost two years of global carbon emissions, serving as a critical carbon sink. However, a recent study reveals that this vital role is under threat, raising concerns about the future of this important ecosystem.

The U.S. nonprofit Amazon Conservation utilized satellite data from the Planet company to assess the amount of carbon stored in the Amazon forest. The analysis indicated that deforestation poses a significant risk, potentially leading to the Amazon releasing more carbon than it absorbs from the atmosphere.

Researchers discovered that Amazon trees contained 56.8 billion metric tons of carbon above ground in 2022, showing an increase of 64.7 million metric tons compared to 2013. While the Amazon has functioned as a carbon sink over the past decade, it now faces the threat of transitioning from a sink to a carbon source due to ongoing deforestation.

The process of clearing vegetation eliminates trees that absorb carbon, leading to an increase in carbon emissions. Moreover, deforested land is often used for farming and livestock activities, which further contribute to greenhouse gas production.

David Lapola, a professor at the State University of Campinas, emphasized the seriousness of these findings, highlighting that the inclusion of forest degradation changes the outlook for carbon absorption in the Amazon basin. Lapola stressed the urgency of addressing both deforestation and the impacts of climate change, particularly in light of severe droughts affecting the region.

While tackling deforestation is a more immediate challenge, combating the effects of climate change on untouched forests requires concerted efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Lapola underscored the importance of addressing these issues to maintain the Amazon’s critical role as a carbon sink.

The study’s findings serve as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between human activities and the environment. As the Amazon faces increasing pressures, the need for sustainable conservation practices becomes more urgent to safeguard this invaluable ecosystem for future generations.