Scientists Warn Natural Tree Colonization Fails Carbon Capture

Recent research from The James Hutton Institute warns that natural tree colonization may not significantly contribute to carbon capture, particularly within the first few decades following planting. Their study indicated that in heather moorland ecosystems, the carbon captured by newly established trees did not offset the carbon lost from the soil, resulting in no net gain in carbon capture, raising concerns for Scotland's 2045 net-zero goals. Meanwhile, conservationists highlight the alarming decline of the Tonkin snub-nosed monkey, which is now only found in Vietnam's Khau Ca reserve after disappearing from its other known habitat, underscoring the broader threat of species extinction and ecosystem disruption. Additionally, environmental groups express fears regarding the potential impact of a second Trump administration on the Amazon rainforest, anticipating cuts to funding for conservation efforts and increased aggression towards development that could harm this crucial carbon sink. The situation is further compounded by a study revealing that less than a quarter of the world's tropical rainforest is in good condition to sustain biodiversity, with only 8% of high-integrity forest habitat remaining for vulnerable species. These developments signal a critical moment for global conservation efforts, emphasizing the need for immediate action to protect both carbon storage and biodiversity.