Above-Ground Biomass in Forest (tonnes/ha) 2019

Global Overview of Above-Ground Biomass in Forest (tonnes/ha) in 2019

In 2019, the country with the highest Above-Ground Biomass in Forest (tonnes/ha) was Micronesia (Fed. States of), boasting an impressive 500.39 tonnes per hectare. The global range for this metric spanned from 0.00 to 500.39 tonnes per hectare, with an average value of 126.95 tonnes per hectare and a median of 112.93 tonnes per hectare.

Geographic Influences on Biomass Levels

The significant disparities in Above-Ground Biomass across different countries can be attributed to geographic and climatic factors. Tropical regions, characterized by dense vegetation and high rainfall, typically exhibit higher biomass levels. For instance, Guyana and Palau follow Micronesia with values of 498.96 and 416.21 tonnes per hectare, respectively, reflecting their rich tropical forests. In contrast, countries like Nauru, Falkland Islands (Malvinas), and Monaco report biomass levels of 0.00, indicating either a lack of forest cover or unsuitable conditions for substantial biomass accumulation. This stark contrast illustrates how tropical ecosystems serve as vital carbon sinks, while arid or urbanized regions face challenges in maintaining forested areas.

Economic Activities and Their Impact on Biomass

Economic activities, particularly those related to agriculture and urbanization, have a profound impact on forest biomass. Countries with extensive agricultural practices or urban sprawl often face deforestation, leading to lower biomass levels. For example, Saudi Arabia and Yemen show low biomass figures of 26.61 and 13.99 tonnes per hectare, respectively, attributed largely to arid climates and agricultural expansion. Conversely, nations like New Zealand, which features managed forestry practices, report a biomass level of 295.23 tonnes per hectare, suggesting that sustainable forestry can contribute positively to biomass levels. The balance between economic development and environmental stewardship is crucial for maintaining forest health and biomass storage.

Year-Over-Year Changes in Above-Ground Biomass

The year 2019 witnessed a modest average change of 0.20 tonnes per hectare (0.2%) in Above-Ground Biomass across the 200 countries with available data. Notably, the Solomon Islands experienced the most significant increase, with a rise of 5.42 tonnes per hectare (5.1%). This increase could be linked to improved forest management practices or recovery efforts in previously deforested areas. Other countries, such as Bulgaria and Saint Lucia, also reported increases of 3.81 (2.2%) and 3.32 (1.2%) tonnes per hectare respectively, indicating positive trends in biomass accumulation. In contrast, nations such as the Philippines and Uruguay faced declines of -1.25 (-0.6%) and -1.00 (-1.0%) tonnes per hectare, highlighting the ongoing challenges of deforestation and land-use changes that threaten forest ecosystems.

In conclusion, the data on Above-Ground Biomass in Forest (tonnes/ha) in 2019 reveals not only the disparities among countries but also underscores the complex interplay of geographic, economic, and environmental factors that influence biomass levels. Understanding these dynamics is essential for formulating policies aimed at enhancing carbon storage and promoting sustainable forest management practices globally.