Why are trees dying more frequently in Australian forests?

Increased tree mortality is attributed to rising temperatures associated with climate change, impacting various forest types across Australia.

What is the impact of increased tree mortality on Australia's carbon storage?

The rising death rate of trees suggests a decline in forest stock and capacity to absorb atmospheric carbon dioxide.

Is the increase in tree deaths a widespread phenomenon in Australia's forests?

Yes, research indicates that increased tree mortality is a widespread phenomenon observed across tropical savannas, temperate forests, and rainforests.

Home / Environment / Australia's Forests Dying Faster as Climate Warms

Australia's Forests Dying Faster as Climate Warms

6 Jan

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Summary

Tree mortality is rising across all Australian forest types.
Warming temperatures are the most likely cause of increased tree deaths.
Declining forest health may reduce carbon storage capacity.

Australia's Forests Dying Faster as Climate Warms

New research reveals that Australia's forests are suffering from an accelerating rate of tree mortality, a trend strongly linked to the warming climate. Data spanning decades and across numerous forest plots indicate a consistent increase in background tree death rates, irrespective of logging or fire impacts. Scientists emphasize that this escalation is highly likely a consequence of rising global temperatures, which have seen a near 1.2 degrees Celsius increase since pre-industrial times.

The study, which excluded areas affected by disturbances like logging or fires, found that the trend persists even after accounting for forest density. Notably, tropical savannas experienced the sharpest rise, with annual tree deaths nearly doubling between 1996 and 2017. This decline in tree survival, not matched by growth, suggests a diminishing forest stock and a reduced capacity for these vital ecosystems to absorb atmospheric carbon dioxide.