Forest restoration is playing an increasingly important role in the fight against climate change. It can not only sequester large amounts of carbon dioxide, but also improve the adaptive capacity of ecosystems and society to changing climate conditions. Restored forests also provide habitats for numerous species and support the livelihoods of many people.
This book chapter examines how forest restoration can contribute to both reducing greenhouse gas emissions and adapting to the impacts of climate change. It summarises global estimates of the climate change mitigation potential of forest restoration and shows how different methodological approaches can lead to very different results. It also analyses how the mitigation potential depends on the geographical region, the chosen restoration approach and the use or non-use of wood. Risks that could limit this potential - including natural factors, socio-economic conditions and management practices - are also considered.
Finally, the chapter discusses how forest restoration can strengthen the adaptive capacity of people and ecosystems. Synergies and potential conflicts between climate change mitigation measures and adaptation strategies are highlighted. We conclude that while large-scale forest restoration faces challenges - particularly the need to address the underlying economic and social drivers of deforestation - it still represents a significant investment in sustainable land use and offers multiple benefits for mitigation and adaptation.
- Kübler D, Günter S (2024) 6 Forest restoration for climate change mitigation and adaptation. In: Katila P, Colfer CJP, De Jong W, Galloway G, Pacheco P, Winkel G (eds) Restoring forests and trees for sustainable development: Policies, practices, impacts, and ways forward. New York: Oxford University Press, pp 135-159, DOI:10.1093/9780197683958.003.0006
https://literatur.thuenen.de/digbib_extern/dn068893.pdf
- Project
LaForeT-Project (Landscape Forestry in the Tropics)
