GS3 ENVIRONMENT:
Key Points:
- Over the last decade, India’s vegetation has absorbed more carbon than it emits, with an annual absorption of 380-530 million tonnes.
- Carbon sequestration, the process of capturing atmospheric CO2 by plants, is vital for climate mitigation.
- Negative Net Ecosystem Exchange (NEE) signifies effective carbon storage.
Challenges:
- Recent studies show a decline in this capacity during extreme weather events like droughts, which are increasing due to climate change.
Vegetation Impact:
- Evergreen forests excel in CO2 capture, whereas deciduous forests in central India can release more carbon than they sequester.
- Croplands, though less efficient per area, contribute significantly due to their vast coverage.
IISER Research:
- Researchers at IISER, Bhopal, have utilized advanced models and plant fluorescence to measure carbon sequestration more accurately.
- Their work with international experts has improved understanding of ecosystem carbon dynamics.
Policy Implications:
- The findings underscore the importance of integrating scientific insights into climate policies to manage and enhance carbon sequestration, particularly in the face of increasing climate extremes.