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Australia's Forests: Growth or Illusion?
19 Nov
Summary
- New analysis questions Australia's official forest growth statistics.
- Regrowth forests lack carbon storage and wildlife benefits of old-growth.
- Australia's forest accounting may hide significant biodiversity loss.
Official figures indicate Australia's forest area has been increasing since 2008. However, a new analysis commissioned by conservationists argues this net increase masks significant deforestation. The report highlights that new forests, often in drier regions with sparse vegetation, do not offer the same carbon storage or wildlife benefits as the mature, species-rich forests being cleared.
This methodology of netting losses against gains has been termed an 'accounting sleight of hand.' Experts emphasize the need to measure gross losses and gains separately, providing better data on what is lost and regenerated. This is crucial for meeting global obligations regarding climate and biodiversity.
The analysis suggests that clearing in intensive regions releases up to 120 times more greenhouse gas per hectare than the gains from thickened vegetation. This raises concerns that Australia's positive forest cover statistic may be hiding substantial biodiversity losses and higher emissions.
