European Forests' Struggle Threatens EU Climate Goals

European forests are facing increased pressure from excessive logging, wildfires, drought, and pests, reducing their capacity to absorb carbon dioxide. This situation jeopardizes the European Union's climate targets, as forests play a crucial role in offsetting emissions.

Scientists highlight that the average annual CO2 absorption by European forests has significantly declined, nearly a third lower in 2020-2022 compared to 2010-2014. This decline, compounded by diminishing climate resilience, poses a threat to the EU's climate goals, which anticipate a larger carbon sink.

Efforts to bridge the emissions gap are complicated by factors beyond control, such as forest fires and droughts. However, managing risks through reduced logging and planting diverse tree species could strengthen forests' carbon storage capacities and resilience against climate extremes.

(With inputs from agencies.)