Wildfires and Heat Threaten Northern Hemisphere Forests, UN Warns
Forests Losing Their Carbon Shield
Record wildfires and rising temperatures are putting decades of forest growth in danger across the northern hemisphere, according to a UN report released on Wednesday.
The UN Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) published the report ahead of the COP30 climate conference in Brazil. It found that forests in Europe, North America, the Caucasus, and Central Asia are losing their ability to absorb carbon dioxide.
If this trend continues, these forests could reach a tipping point, where they begin to release more carbon than they absorb.
Climate Goals at Risk
Such a shift could threaten efforts to meet the Paris Agreement target of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. Forests currently play a vital role in balancing the planet’s carbon levels. They absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide produced by fossil fuel use and deforestation.
In fact, forests in the northern hemisphere hold half of the world’s carbon storage.
“The message is clear: What we have achieved over the last three decades is now at serious risk from the climate emergency,” said UNECE Executive Secretary Tatiana Molcean.
Boreal Forests Facing Severe Threats
The report identified Arctic boreal forests as some of the most vulnerable. These forests contain nearly half of the world’s old-growth woodland and store massive amounts of carbon. However, they are now exposed to rising heat, wildfires, and droughts.
The northern hemisphere makes up 42% of the world’s forest cover. Yet, it is increasingly at risk from fires, pests, and prolonged dry seasons, according to the UNECE.
Decline in Carbon Absorption
A related study by the European Union’s Joint Research Centre found a sharp decline in Europe’s carbon absorption capacity. Between 2020 and 2022, European forests absorbed 30% less carbon dioxide each year compared to 2010–2014.
This drop shows that climate change is directly weakening forests’ natural ability to stabilize global temperatures.
“We cannot afford to lose the planet’s most powerful natural defence,” Molcean said. “Wildfires and drought are pushing our forests toward a dangerous tipping point.”
Global Action at COP30
To respond to the growing crisis, Brazil plans to launch the Tropical Forests Forever Fund (TFFF) at COP30.
This new initiative will support countries that commit to protecting and restoring their forests. It aims to provide stable, long-term funding for forest management and carbon conservation.
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