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Arctic-Boreal Zone: A Shifting Carbon Balance

Jan 242 min read

Recent studies have revealed a worrying trend: approximately 34% of the Arctic-Boreal Zone (ABZ) has transitioned from being a carbon sink to a carbon source. This alarming development highlights the environmental challenges facing one of the most critical biomes on Earth.


Arctic-Boreal Zone (ABZ)

  • The ABZ encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, including treeless tundra, boreal forests, and wetlands located along the Arctic Circle in the Northern Hemisphere.

  • Boreal Forest (Taiga):

    • The largest terrestrial biome on Earth.

    • Dominated by evergreen, coniferous trees, such as pines, spruces, and firs.

  • Arctic Tundra:

    • Characterized by low species diversity and minimal net primary productivity.

    • Its soil remains in a perennially frozen state, known as permafrost, which locks away vast amounts of carbon.


Causes of the Shift in Carbon Dynamics

  1. Permafrost Thawing

    • As global temperatures rise, the permafrost is melting, releasing stored carbon in the form of CO₂ and methane, potent greenhouse gases.

  2. Increasing Wildfires

    • Warmer and drier conditions in the ABZ have led to a surge in wildfires, which not only release carbon but also reduce the carbon-absorbing capacity of forests.

  3. Regional Hotspots

    • Certain areas in the ABZ have become epicenters of carbon emissions due to accelerated ecological changes, including vegetation loss and soil degradation.


Significance for UPSC Aspirants

  1. Global Climate Impact

    • The Arctic-Boreal Zone plays a pivotal role in regulating the Earth's climate. A shift from carbon sink to source exacerbates global warming.

  2. Biodiversity and Ecosystems

    • The fragile ecosystems of the ABZ are critical for biodiversity conservation and serve as a vital part of the Earth’s ecological balance.

  3. India's Polar Interests

    • Understanding the ABZ is relevant for India, which has a research station in the Arctic, and its policies on climate action.


Practice Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Arctic-Boreal Zone (ABZ):

  1. The ABZ is predominantly located in the Southern Hemisphere.

  2. The Arctic tundra is characterized by high species diversity and high net primary productivity.

  3. Boreal forests are the largest terrestrial biome and are dominated by coniferous trees.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 only

(c) 1, 2, and 3

(d) None of the above


 
 
 

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