Overlooked Latin American Ecosystems Store More Carbon Than Tropical Forests
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📰 The quick summary: Scientists are highlighting overlooked Latin American ecosystems like peatlands, mangroves, and seagrass meadows that can store significantly more carbon than tropical forests, offering powerful but underutilized tools in the fight against climate change.
📈 One key stat: Peatland soils can store between three and five times more carbon dioxide than other tropical ecosystems, reaching up to 1,700 metric tons of carbon per hectare in Peru’s Datem del Marañón province.
💬 One key quote: “Peatlands are a giant mass of carbon. The statistics tell us that they cover between 3% and 5% of the Earth’s surface, but they have two times more carbon than the world’s forests.”
1️⃣ The big picture: Scientists across Latin America are calling attention to overlooked ecosystems that play crucial roles in carbon sequestration. While tropical forests like the Amazon receive significant focus in climate plans, ecosystems such as peatlands, mangroves, coastal wetlands, and seagrass meadows have been largely ignored despite their superior carbon storage capabilities. Research shows these ecosystems can store several times more carbon per hectare than tropical forests. Scientists are working with communities and organizations to study, protect, and restore these vital carbon sinks, but face challenges including lack of data, insufficient mapping, and limited political recognition.
2️⃣ Why is this good news: Several overlooked ecosystems are proving to be carbon sequestration powerhouses, with peatlands storing up to five times more carbon than other tropical ecosystems and mangroves capturing up to seven times more carbon than other forests. Communities are adopting sustainable practices, like Peruvian natives who now climb aguaje palms to harvest fruit rather than cutting them down, thus protecting critical peatlands. Ecuador has successfully protected 62% of its mangroves through concessions to local fishers, who commit to conservation while sustainably harvesting resources. These conservation models combine scientific knowledge with traditional wisdom, creating effective climate solutions while supporting local livelihoods.
3️⃣ What’s next: Researchers need to conduct more detailed mapping and studies of these overlooked ecosystems to fully understand their carbon sequestration potential. Countries must incorporate these findings into their nationally determined contributions (NDCs) for climate action. Better articulation between technical instruments and political mechanisms will allow these carbon-rich ecosystems to be properly accounted for in climate commitments.
Read the full story here: Mongabay – Scientists push for greater climate role for Latin America’s overlooked ecosystems
