This article focuses on the mass deforestation of the world that has happened over the last 150 years and how this has led to a huge global increase in CO2 build-up. Forests absorb carbon dioxide, making them natural regulators of CO2 in the atmosphere. They can also provide a natural barrier to natural disasters such as over-flowing rivers. As a vital part of many ecosystems, various species rely on forests and vice versa. The main idea presented in this article to reverse this high CO2 build up is the idea of creating “Carbon Sinks.” Reforestation, or planting of new forests, may help with climate change and warming of the earth’s atmosphere. This idea is criticized however because it legitimizes the continued destruction of pristine forests that already have a thriving ecosystem. Industries feel that deforestation would be countered by reforestation; however this is not the case. To create a new forest would mean creating a new ecosystem as well.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Carbon Sinks
--Mike Gnip