Climate Change, Air Pollution and Tropical Forest – Exploring the Linkages

Abstract:

There has been increasing awareness on the importance of simultaneously addressing the linkages between the traditional air pollutants (APs) and greenhouse gases (GHGs) and its combined effects on forest ecosystems. Aside from the fact that APs and GHGs have common sources, their emissions interact in the atmosphere and cause a variety of environmental effects. Parallel to the rise of concern for climate change, there is also high interest on the role of forests for carbon sequestration and storage, among other environmental services. Here, we review the links between air pollution and climate change, its integrated effects on forest ecosystems and the opportunities they present for preserving the forest. Also, the roles of forest in addressing air pollution and climate change are explored. The ways by which forest management in the Philippines can curb the rate of increase of GHGs in the atmosphere are provided to have a clear view of the role of forest in addressing climate change. Knowledge gaps, challenges and concerns on the linkages and opportunities will be presented.