Between 1990 and 2020, surface area, biomass, and carbon stocks have increased in European forests, especially in Central and Eastern Europe, thanks to reforestation policies. Yet, the ecological impacts of this vary depending on the region and management methods as demonstrated in this study linking carbon sequestration and biodiversity.<\/p>\n
Mixed forests, managed less intensively, show a positive correlation between carbon storage and biodiversity (species richness, Shannon and Simpson indices). In contrast, intensive monocultures, as eucalyptus plantations in southwestern Europe, promote rapid carbon accumulation but neglect structural diversity and ecological resilience.<\/p>\n
Statistical models reveal that the carbon-biodiversity relationship is non-linear and depends on the regional context and dominant species. Short term rotations decrease the average age of forests and increase short-term productivity, but at the same time, undermines long-term sustainability (loss of dead wood, simplification of habitats, increased vulnerability to disturbances).<\/p>\n
The study highlights the need for policies to move beyond approaches focused only on forest and carbon quantity. The authors recommend:<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
In conclusion, while Europe is making progress toward increasing forest carbon, biodiversity conservation remains uneven. Sustainable forest management requires a balance between climate and ecological objectives, through a multifunctional approach that integrates ecosystem structure, composition, and resilience.<\/p>","protected":false},"featured_media":45920,"template":"","acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n