Question

Suggest one solutiofor increasing the amount of carbon being absorbed from the atmosphere. Present a short argument for why this suggestion will work. (Refer to the Carbon Reservoirs table for ideas)

Answer 1

Reforestation is a powerful solution for increasing carbon absorption as forests act as carbon sinks and can reduce the atmospheric CO₂ burden.

Step-by-step explanation:

One solution for increasing the amount of carbon absorbed from the atmosphere is worldwide reforestation. This suggestion would work because forests act as carbon sinks by storing carbon within the biomass of trees. Addressing the significant loss of tropical forests, which have decreased from covering 12 percent to only 5 percent of global land masses, could reverse some of the damage, as deforestation contributes to 16 to 19 percent of greenhouse gas emissions. Furthermore, proper management of soil and forest ecosystems can enhance carbon storage, ultimately reducing the atmospheric CO₂ burden and improving agricultural soil quality. Natural processes that promote carbon sequestration include photosynthesis and the long-term storage of organic carbon when matter from living organisms is fossilized.