Temperate Rainforests: Climate Threats

Temperate rainforests, occupying less than 1% of Earth’s land, face severe climate threats. Current trends predict 68% could vanish by 2100 under business-as-usual emissions, with potential losses up to 90% in certain areas. These forests are vital for biodiversity and carbon storage but are highly vulnerable to rising temperatures and fragmentation. Conservation and restoration are critical to safeguarding the 37% of primary old-growth forests that remain. Intact ecosystems offer cooling microclimates, mitigating climate impacts. However, underestimation of extreme weather effects necessitates comprehensive future research and immediate action to preserve these vital ecosystems.