Because they basically consist of lots and lots of plant matter, peatlands sequester lots and lots of carbon. So much so that scientists regard peatlands as one of the most efficient natural carbon sinks on the planet.
New research has found that deforestation rates between 2007 and 2010 in the woodlands of southern Africa were five times greater than previously thought.
Scientists seeking the tools necessary to tackle climate change need to better understand both the current interplay between carbon and tropical forests and how those forests will respond as temperatures warm.
Concern is mounting for the Democratic Republic of Congo's (DRC) vast forests and rich wildlife as logging concessions and licenses to explore for oil in protected areas are prepared ahead of presidential elections later this year.
Lax due diligence by European companies is driving the illegal harvest of timber in Ukraine, one of the largest suppliers to the continent, according to a recent report.
