Temperate Rainforests Face Severe Climate Threats

Recent studies highlight the alarming fate of temperate rainforests due to climate change. Researchers from the University of Leeds warn that under a ‘business-as-usual’ scenario, over 68 per cent of these unique ecosystems could vanish by 2100. The loss of these forests poses important ecological risks, as they support diverse species and store substantial carbon.

About Temperate Rainforests

Temperate rainforests are rare ecosystems primarily found in cool, wet regions. They cover less than 1 per cent of the Earth’s terrestrial surface but account for about 2.5 per cent of global forest cover. Countries like Canada, the US, Chile, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and the UK host these vital biomes. Their unique climate conditions make them particularly vulnerable to rising temperatures.

Impact of Climate Change

The study indicates that without action to curb greenhouse gas emissions, temperate rainforests could experience up to 90 per cent loss in some areas. The researchers estimate that limiting global warming to below two degrees Celsius could mitigate damage to just 9 per cent. High summer temperatures threaten the survival of these forests and their biodiversity.

Current State of Temperate Rainforests

Significantly, 43 per cent of the existing temperate rainforest biome has already been lost to deforestation. Only 37 per cent of the original old-growth forest remains. Regions like Europe have nearly lost all their temperate rainforests. This degradation puts stress on the urgent need for protection and restoration efforts.

Microclimate and Forest Vulnerability

Intact forests create a cooler microclimate, which can buffer against extreme heat. However, fragmented and isolated forests are more susceptible to climate impacts. The study suggests that extreme weather events, such as landslides and heatwaves, could further accelerate forest loss, posing additional risks not fully accounted for in current models.

Call to Action

The findings tell the critical need for immediate conservation measures. Protecting the remaining temperate rainforests is essential for maintaining biodiversity and carbon storage. Restoration efforts must be prioritised to counteract the ongoing degradation.

Questions for UPSC:

1. Critically analyse the ecological significance of temperate rainforests in global climate regulation.
2. Explain the potential consequences of deforestation on biodiversity and carbon storage in temperate rainforests.
3. What are the primary factors contributing to the vulnerability of temperate rainforests? Discuss with examples.
4. What is the role of microclimates in forest ecosystems? How do they influence forest resilience to climate change?

Answer Hints:

1. Critically analyse the ecological significance of temperate rainforests in global climate regulation.

1. Temperate rainforests cover less than 1% of Earth’s surface yet account for 2.5% of global forest cover.
2. They host unique species, contributing to biodiversity and ecological balance.
3. These forests store important amounts of carbon, helping mitigate climate change impacts.
4. They regulate local climates by maintaining moisture levels and influencing weather patterns.
5. Loss of temperate rainforests could lead to increased greenhouse gas emissions and further climate destabilization.

2. Explain the potential consequences of deforestation on biodiversity and carbon storage in temperate rainforests.

1. Deforestation leads to habitat loss, threatening species that rely on these ecosystems for survival.
2. It reduces genetic diversity, making ecosystems less resilient to environmental changes.
3. Carbon storage capacity diminishes, contributing to higher atmospheric CO2 levels.
4. Decreased forest cover can disrupt local water cycles and increase soil erosion.
5. Loss of old-growth forests results in the disappearance of unique flora and fauna adapted to these habitats.

3. What are the primary factors contributing to the vulnerability of temperate rainforests? Discuss with examples.

1. Climate change introduces higher temperatures, which these forests are not adapted to withstand.
2. Deforestation for agriculture and urban development reduces forest area and connectivity.
3. Extreme weather events, such as heatwaves and storms, can cause important damage to forest ecosystems.
4. Fragmentation isolates forest patches, making them more susceptible to invasive species and pests.
5. Regions like Europe show minimal remaining temperate rainforests, denoting the impact of historical exploitation.

4. What is the role of microclimates in forest ecosystems? How do they influence forest resilience to climate change?

1. Microclimates created by intact forests are typically cooler and more humid than surrounding areas.
2. They provide a buffer against extreme heat, protecting sensitive species and maintaining biodiversity.
3. Healthy microclimates enhance soil moisture retention, benefiting plant growth and ecosystem health.
4. Intact forests can mitigate the impacts of climate change, allowing for greater resilience in the face of environmental stressors.
5. Fragmented forests lack these protective microclimates, increasing vulnerability to climate impacts.