A recent study reveals that improved forest management (IFM) and conservation efforts in the coastal temperate rainforests of western North America could significantly reduce carbon emissions. The research estimates potential reductions of over 9 million tonnes of carbon dioxide (tCO2e) annually through better forest practices.
Hoh Rainforest in Washington state's Olympic National Park. AI generated picture.
The study, titled Mapping forest-based natural climate solutions, examined 13 million hectares of forest in the region. These forests hold approximately 640 million tonnes of CO2, offering significant opportunities for carbon storage. According to the authors, a 10% reduction in forest carbon losses could achieve a substantial 9.1 million tCO2e reduction annually.
Read more: US timber giant aims for net zero with nature-based solutions
This potential reduction represents 5.2% of the 2030 land-based climate commitments of both the United States and Canada combined. The regions of Oregon and Washington, in particular, present the best opportunities for implementing these natural climate solutions.
However, large-scale implementation will require cooperation between various stakeholders, including forest-dependent communities, industry, governments, and Indigenous peoples. The study calls for investments in a diverse portfolio of natural environmental solutions, emphasising collaboration with local communities to mitigate environmental instability and encourage political change.
Read more: Reforestation and afforestation projects around the world: success stories and lessons learned
The study cautions that the success of these measures depends on site-specific factors, including legal frameworks and economic incentives like carbon market projects. Additionally, it stresses the importance of preventing carbon ‘leakage’ from other regions that could counteract these efforts.
Nature holds the greatest potential to address carbon emissions, and by embracing nature-based solutions, we can restore balance to our planet. At DGB Group, we are committed to harnessing this power through reforestation and afforestation projects that do more than just plant trees—they rebuild ecosystems where both nature and communities can flourish. Our long-term projects are designed for lasting impact, adhering to the highest environmental and social standards to ensure meaningful, positive change.
By investing in these initiatives, you are not only supporting the environment but also creating a sustainable future where people and nature thrive together. Join us in our mission to leave a lasting legacy, one that nurtures both the planet and the communities that depend on it.
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