Methane Surge from Tropical Wetlands Threatens Global Climate Goals
The world's tropical wetlands are emitting more methane than ever before, recent research shows—an alarming sign that global climate goals are slipping further out of reach.
As temperatures rise, these warm, waterlogged ecosystems release increasing amounts of methane, a potent greenhouse gas. This surge in wetlands methane is unaccounted for by national emissions plans and undercounted in scientific models, raising concerns among researchers and policymakers alike.
The unexpected increase could pressure governments to make deeper cuts in fossil fuel consumption and agricultural emissions. Without addressing this overlooked source of greenhouse gases, efforts to combat climate change may fall short.
"We need to consider all contributing factors to effectively tackle climate change," researchers suggest. By recognizing and incorporating wetlands methane emissions into climate strategies, governments can develop more comprehensive solutions.
This development underscores the complex interplay between natural ecosystems and human-induced climate change. Tackling emissions from all sources is essential to meeting global climate targets and securing a sustainable future.
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Methane from tropical wetlands is surging, threatening climate plans
cgtn.com
