A study led by NIWA has found that New Zealand’s native forests are absorbing more carbon dioxide than previously thought. The research, which analyzed atmospheric data from 2011 to 2020, suggests that the country’s natural environment absorbs approximately 171 million tonnes of CO2 annually. This is higher than previous estimates, which ranged from 24 to 118 million tonnes per year. The study found that the largest differences were in the South Island, particularly in areas dominated by mature native forests and certain grazing lands. The research has implications for New Zealand’s greenhouse gas reporting, carbon credit costs, and climate and land-use policies. The findings suggest that the country’s native forests may be playing a more significant role in mitigating climate change than previously thought. Further research is needed to understand the reasons behind the discrepancy and to refine New Zealand’s carbon inventory methods. The study’s results have important implications for the country’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and achieve its domestic and international targets.
Natural woodland areas absorb greater amounts of carbon dioxide than previously anticipated.
