The impact of tree loss on carbon management in West Africa

This study quantifies the amount of carbon stored and sequestered by vegetation in west Africa, loss due to tree cover loss, potential natural sequestration relative projected emissions 2030. GIS analysis published data on biomass, cover, soil indicate that held 38,855 Mt 2010, most which was above below ground vegetation. The 58,353 km2 (9%) between 2010 2018 resulted 672 14,923 Key Biodiversity Areas, (sites conservation importance), covered 7.4% land but contained 16% Trees 23.6 53.6 (17% Areas). Restoration lost Africa could sequester an additional 27.5 per annum during first 30 years growth. Our estimates a combination restoration equivalent c.30% 2030 regional emissions, contributing significantly towards mitigating climate change.