British scientists from the University of Leeds have discovered that by the end of this century, more than two-thirds of the Earth’s temperate rainforests could disappear due to a changing climate. The study was published in the scientific journal magazine Future of the Earth (EF).
Temperate rainforests are a type of forest area with a cool, moist climate. Coniferous and broad-leaved species predominate. Such forests are found in North, South and Central America, Eurasia, Africa, Southeast Asia and Oceania. The temperate rainforests surrounding Lake Baikal in Russia are also found in Okhotsk, along the Caspian and Black Sea coasts.
Although temperate rainforests constitute only 1% of the Earth’s total forest area, these areas are important for the protection of biodiversity and ecosystems.
According to researchers’ predictions, in the most pessimistic scenario, 68% of the world’s temperate forests will disappear by 2100. In some areas their area will be reduced by 90%. If climate change can be slowed down, losses will be only 9%.
“Our research also shows that it is not too late to save the world’s temperate rainforests if we make every effort to slow climate change. We hope that our research will contribute to the conservation of temperate tropical forests by identifying areas that are least or most vulnerable to climate change and have forest restoration potential,” the authors of the scientific study said.
Previous scientists warned About the impending collapse of the Amazon rainforest.
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Source: Gazeta
Barbara Dickson is a seasoned writer for “Social Bites”. She keeps readers informed on the latest news and trends, providing in-depth coverage and analysis on a variety of topics.