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Forests Absorb Twice as Much Carbon as They Emit Each Year

Provided by: Global Forest Watch |Published on: January 17, 2023

Articles/Websites Grades 6-8, 9-12

Synopsis

This article describes how the world's forests can act as carbon sources and sinks, depending on their management.
Students will learn about forest management practices that affect carbon emissions and the positive impacts of indigenous land rights in resource protection.
The article ends with a short video about the technology used to map forest carbon sinks and sources around the world.

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Subjects: Earth and Space Sciences, Geography

Authors: Nancy Harris and David Gibbs, Global Forest Watch

Region: Global

Languages: English

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Teaching Materials

Positives

This article provides a concise explanation of forests acting as carbon sources and sinks and how this is linked to climate change.
The maps and graphics are great visuals to help students understand the information.

Additional Prerequisites

Students should be familiar with decoding maps that use color legends to convey data.

Differentiation

Students can continue their research with some of the linked resources and share their findings with the class.
Teachers may want to discuss how to interpret the infographic data included in the article with the class to ensure they understand what the visuals are conveying.
This resource could be used in science classes when learning about deforestation, the carbon cycle, climate change, and climate change solutions.

Scientist Notes

Teaching Tips

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Resource Type and Format

About the Partner Provider

Global Forest Watch

Global Forest Watch (GFW) is an online platform that provides data and tools for monitoring forests. By harnessing cutting-edge technology, GFW allows anyone to access near real-time information about where and how forests are changing around the world. GFW is used every day to monitor and manage forests, stop illegal deforestation and fires, call out unsustainable activities, defend land and resources, sustainably source commodities, and conduct research at the forefront of conservation.

Related Teaching Resources

All resources can be used for your educational purposes with proper attribution to the content provider.