New study estimates that natural forest recovery could capture approximately 226 Gigatonnes (Gt) of carbon, but only if we also reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Achieving these results requires community-​driven efforts to conserve and restore biodiversity.

13.11.2023

In brief

• Forests have the potential to capture 226 Gigatonnes (Gt) of carbon in areas where they would naturally exist.
• This forest potential can only be achieved alongside emissions cuts.
• Sixty-​one percent of the forest potential can be achieved by protecting existing forests and allowing them to regrow to maturity.
• Thirty-​nine percent can be achieved by reconnecting fragmented landscapes through community-​driven ecosystem restoration and management.
• A natural diversity of species is needed to maximize the forest carbon potential.

Research results published in the journal, Nature, show that realistic global forest carbon potential is approximately 226 Gigatonnes (Gt) of carbon. The study, which involved hundreds of scientists around the world, highlights the critical importance of forest conservation, restoration, and sustainable management in moving towards international climate and biodiversity targets. The researchers stress that this potential can be achieved by incentivizing community-​driven efforts to promote biodiversity.

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