Tropical forests, particularly the Amazon, are vital carbon sinks storing over 123 billion tonnes of CO₂. However, new research reveals a critical vulnerability.
A 2023 study by over 100 scientists found South American tropical forests may fail to absorb carbon during El Niño events. These climate phenomena cause warmer temperatures and drought conditions, stressing the ecosystem.
During such extremes, the forests could stop acting as carbon sinks and potentially release stored CO₂ back into the atmosphere. This year's El Niño event is forecast to be particularly strong, raising concerns about accelerated climate change impacts.