On March 21, we celebrated the International Day of Forests. This year, the Institute of Forest Research and Services from the National University of Costa Rica (Inisefor-UNA) emphasized the importance of forests and soils in tackling climate change.
Forests and their soils play a crucial role by storing more carbon than what we see above ground. This stored carbon is vital for keeping our ecosystem stable. However, measuring soil organic carbon (SOC) globally has its challenges. These hurdles can make it tough to include SOC in climate finance mechanisms, like REDD+ and voluntary carbon markets.
Victor Meza, a researcher at Inisefor-UNA, shared, “We’re working on a detailed SOC assessment matrix to improve how we measure carbon in different soils and land uses in Costa Rica. Our methods include correcting for rocks and removing roots to get a clearer picture of the actual carbon content.”
By factoring in SOC, we enhance carbon capture and storage. Forest soils can hold carbon for centuries, which helps reduce greenhouse gases.
Moreover, better SOC monitoring helps us understand ecosystems more thoroughly. It complements forest inventories and illustrates the role of forests in climate change efforts. Meza noted that incorporating SOC into carbon credit schemes boosts the economic benefits of forest protection and sustainable management.
According to recent data from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), deforestation is responsible for nearly 10% of global carbon emissions. By focusing on soil and forest health, we can make a significant impact on climate change.
In addition to environmental benefits, there’s a growing interest in the economic side. As social media conversations around sustainability surge, more people recognize the importance of conserving forests. This new awareness translates into support for eco-friendly initiatives and policies.
In summary, forests are not just a beautiful part of our planet; they are essential allies in the fight against climate change. By prioritizing soil health and carbon monitoring, we can enhance both our environment and our economy.
Check out this related article: NOAA’s Crucial Spring Climate Outlook: Drought Warnings Amid Staff and Budget Cuts
Source linkcosta rica,costa rica news,Daily News,ecosystems,National News,news,news costa rica
