1st March, 2024
CHIRANJIT MITRA
● Mangroves, coastal forests known for their climate change fighting powers, could become significant carbon emitters if temperatures continue to rise. ● A new study has revealed a disturbing risk to these vital ecosystems.
● Mangroves are incredibly efficient at absorbing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. ● Their dense root systems trap sediment containing organic carbon, keeping it out of circulation. ● This "blue carbon" storage makes them crucial in fighting climate change.
● The study found mangroves have a temperature threshold. ● If global temperatures rise too high, the microbes within mangrove soil decompose the stored organic matter rapidly. ● This releases massive amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) - potent greenhouse gases.
● The study warns that under worst-case warming scenarios, mangroves could emit 500 times more carbon by 2100 than they currently absorb. ● This would turn them from carbon sinks to significant carbon sources, drastically undermining their climate benefits.
● This study doesn't mean mangrove conservation is futile. We have two clear takeaways: ● Urgently reduce greenhouse gas emissions to prevent severe warming scenarios. ● Continue protecting and restoring mangroves, but with the understanding that their climate benefits aren't guaranteed in the long term.
● This research highlights how climate change can disrupt even natural systems we count on for mitigation. ● It underscores the urgency for drastic action to lower emissions and protect the ecosystems we rely on.