Natural carbon storage decline will accelerate climate change

A study from the University of Strathclyde indicates that the natural process of carbon dioxide sequestration is declining. This decline, which has shifted from an increase of 0.8% per year in the 1960s to a decrease of 0.25% per year now, may accelerate climate change. Researchers note that while human emissions are rising by about 1.2% annually, the current rate of natural sequestration decline could lead to a 50% reduction in its effectiveness over the next 250 years. This contrasts with previous assumptions that sequestration would continue to increase before declining. The study highlights that despite some areas appearing greener, various factors like heat, drought, and wildfires are negatively impacting vegetation growth. The findings challenge the belief that natural carbon storage is still on the rise.