Co-benefits in biodiversity conservation and carbon stock during forest regeneration in a preserved tropical landscape

Co-benefits in biodiversity conservation and carbon stock during forest regeneration in a preserved tropical landscape

Background:

Recognizing the connection between carbon stock and biodiversity has become more crucial in light of the requirements set by international agreements. Consequently, a vital and indispensable measure for guiding relevant global environmental initiatives is to empirically investigating the potential advantages of restoring degraded areas through forest regeneration. This approach aims to boost both aboveground carbon stock and biodiversity, moving them closer to their natural levels.

Goals and methods:

The main goals of the article are to examine the relationship between natural forest regeneration, carbon stocks, and plant diversity in the Atlantic Forest of southern Brazil. The study aims to test the hypothesis that plant diversity and above-ground carbon increase quickly and concomitantly over time during natural forest regeneration. Additionally, the study aims to demonstrate the mutual benefits of carbon stock and diversity, resulting in greater co-benefit as forest age increases. 

conclusions and Takeaways:

Natural regeneration in the Atlantic Forest of southern Brazil is associated with simultaneous increases in aboveground carbon stocks and plant species diversity. The study demonstrates that as forests regenerate naturally, carbon accumulation and biodiversity recovery proceed together, with both metrics increasing over time. This finding suggests that ecological restoration through natural regeneration can effectively contribute to carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation, addressing important global environmental concerns.

 

Reference: 

Capellesso ESalete, Cequinel A, Marques R, Sausen TLuisa, Bayer C, Marques MCristina M. Co-benefits in biodiversity conservation and carbon stock during forest regeneration in a preserved tropical landscape. Forest Ecology and Management. 2021;492:119222. doi:10.1016/j.foreco.2021.119222.