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Congo Basin Peatlands & Their Climate Role

Congo Basin Peatlands Climate Change

The Congo Basin, located in Africa, is home to the world’s largest tropical peatlands. These peatlands play a crucial role in mitigating climate change through carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation. With the potential to store around 29 billion tons of carbon, they are vital in preserving the delicate balance of our planet’s ecosystems.

However, Congo Basin peatlands are facing significant threats. Peatlands degradation, which includes activities like drainage for agriculture and vegetation removal, can result in the release of greenhouse gas emissions, including methane. This degradation not only contributes to climate change but also negatively impacts the rich biodiversity found in the tropical rainforests of the region.

In order to protect these important ecosystems and their climate role, sustainable land management practices and environmental conservation efforts are essential. By understanding the impact of peatlands degradation and taking action to preserve them, we can ensure the long-term health of our planet and mitigate the effects of climate change.

Key Takeaways:

  • Congo Basin peatlands store approximately 29 billion tons of carbon, making them a crucial carbon sink in the fight against climate change.
  • Degradation of peatlands through activities like drainage and vegetation removal can lead to the release of greenhouse gas emissions and negatively impact biodiversity.
  • Sustainable land management practices and environmental conservation efforts are necessary to protect these peatlands and mitigate climate change.
  • Preserving the Congo Basin peatlands contributes to the preservation of the rich tropical rainforests and the diverse plant and animal species they support.
  • Mitigating peatlands degradation and promoting sustainability is a collective effort that requires cross-sector collaboration and individual action.

The Importance of Peatlands in the Congo Basin

The peat swamp forest of the Congo Basin plays a crucial role in mitigating climate change and conserving biodiversity. These unique ecosystems store approximately three years’ worth of global greenhouse gas emissions and absorb nearly 1.5 billion tons of carbon dioxide annually. In fact, they act as highly effective carbon sinks, absorbing more carbon than they emit.

But the significance of Congo Basin peatlands goes beyond carbon sequestration. They also provide vital ecosystem services that benefit both nature and people. For instance, peatlands play a crucial role in water capture and storage, helping to regulate water flows and maintain water quality in the region.

Furthermore, these peatlands support a diverse array of plant and animal species. From rare orchids to iconic wildlife such as gorillas and elephants, the Congo Basin peatlands are home to a rich biodiversity that must be conserved to ensure the long-term health of the ecosystem.

“Congo Basin peatlands store approximately 29 billion tons of carbon and are a vital asset in mitigating climate change and preserving biodiversity.”

Protecting and sustainably managing these peatlands is of utmost importance. By preserving the Congo Basin peatlands, we can make a significant contribution to climate change mitigation and ensure the conservation of precious biodiversity. Governments, local communities, and international organizations must work together to implement effective strategies that safeguard the future of these valuable ecosystems.

Threats to Congo Basin Peatlands

Despite their ecological significance, the Congo Basin peatlands face numerous threats that compromise their integrity and contribute to climate change. These threats include drainage for agriculture, vegetation removal, alteration, and unsustainable land use changes. The degradation of peatlands releases carbon dioxide through oxidization or fires, exacerbating greenhouse gas emissions and their impact on the global climate system.

The draining and burning of peatlands in the Congo Basin emit approximately 2 billion tons of carbon dioxide annually, accounting for almost 5% of human-caused emissions. This significant carbon release undermines regional and global efforts to mitigate climate change. Additionally, land use changes, such as oil and gas exploration, logging operations, and potential agricultural expansion, further jeopardize the conservation of these fragile ecosystems and exacerbate their vulnerability to climate change impacts.

The Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Draining and Burning of Congo Basin Peatlands

“The draining and burning of peatlands in the Congo Basin emit approximately 2 billion tons of carbon dioxide per year, accounting for almost 5% of human-caused emissions.”

Impact of Unsustainable Land Use Changes on Congo Basin Peatlands

  • Oil and gas exploration: The extraction of fossil fuels within the Congo Basin peatlands poses significant threats to the environment and contributes to climate change. The construction of infrastructure, such as drilling platforms and access roads, disrupts the delicate hydrological balance of these ecosystems, resulting in carbon emissions and loss of valuable habitats.
  • Logging operations: Unsustainable logging practices, including clear-cutting and selective harvesting, degrade the peatlands and reduce their capacity to store carbon. The removal of vegetation cover exposes the peat to oxidation, releasing stored carbon into the atmosphere and further contributing to global warming.
  • Agricultural expansion: The conversion of peatlands for agricultural purposes, such as palm oil plantations or industrial-scale farming, leads to significant peatland degradation. Drainage for irrigation systems and land clearance for cultivation disrupt the natural hydrological processes and degrade the carbon sequestration potential of these ecosystems.

The degradation of Congo Basin peatlands not only accelerates climate change but also threatens the rich biodiversity and ecosystem services provided by these unique habitats. Urgent action is needed to address these threats, protect the peatlands, and ensure their long-term resilience to climate change.

Congo Basin Peatlands

The Role of Peatlands in Climate Change Mitigation

Protecting peatlands is crucial for climate change mitigation. These unique ecosystems have a significant impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable land management. By conserving and restoring degraded peatlands, we can make a substantial contribution to combating climate change.

Peatlands store twice as much carbon as all the world’s forests combined, making them invaluable carbon sinks. Restoring and conserving degraded peatlands can reduce global greenhouse gas emissions by 800 million metric tons per year. These efforts are essential in achieving greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets and creating a more sustainable future.

Implementing sustainable land management practices is crucial in protecting peatlands. By preventing further degradation and implementing responsible land use practices, we can ensure the long-term preservation of these valuable ecosystems. Sustainable land management not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also promotes biodiversity conservation and climate resilience.

Peatlands play a vital role in capturing and storing carbon dioxide, thereby preventing its release into the atmosphere. This process of carbon sequestration is crucial in mitigating the impacts of climate change and promoting a more sustainable future. By protecting peatlands, we can actively contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and combat the effects of climate change.

“Peatlands store twice as much carbon as all the world’s forests combined, making them invaluable carbon sinks.”

The Benefits of Peatland Conservation:

  • Reduces global greenhouse gas emissions by 800 million metric tons per year
  • Protects biodiversity and promotes sustainable land management
  • Contributes to climate change mitigation and resilience
  • Preserves and restores unique ecosystems with significant carbon sequestration capacity

By recognizing the importance of peatlands and implementing effective conservation measures, we can make a significant impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting sustainable land management practices. Protecting peatlands is vital for climate change mitigation and creating a more sustainable future for generations to come.

Carbon Storage in Peatlands vs. Forests

Peatlands Forests
Twice as much carbon stored Significant carbon storage capacity
Effective carbon sinks Carbon sequestration
Prevents greenhouse gas emissions Promotes biodiversity and ecosystem services

Conservation Efforts and International Agreements

Efforts to protect and preserve the peatlands in the Congo Basin have gained international recognition. Various countries and initiatives have come together to address the urgent need for conservation measures and the importance of international agreements to ensure the long-term protection of these valuable ecosystems.

“Conserving the peatlands in the Congo Basin is crucial for mitigating climate change and preserving biodiversity. It requires collaborative efforts and strong international agreements.” – [Insert Name], Environmental Scientist

In 2018, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Congo, and Indonesia signed the Brazzaville Declaration, a significant step towards promoting the conservation and sustainable management of the peatlands in the Cuvette Centrale region. This region houses a substantial portion of the Congo Basin peatlands and holds great importance in terms of carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation.

The United Nations Environment Assembly has also emphasized the urgent need for conservation, sustainable management, and restoration of peatlands worldwide, including those in the Congo Basin. Recognizing the critical role of these ecosystems in mitigating climate change, the international community has stressed the importance of collective action in protecting and preserving peatlands.

To ensure the success of these conservation efforts and international agreements, it is vital that countries invest in sustainable land management practices, provide adequate resources, and foster cross-sector collaboration. Only through these combined efforts can we effectively protect and preserve the valuable peatland ecosystems in the Congo Basin.

International Agreements for Peatlands Protection

Below are some of the key international agreements and initiatives focused on peatlands protection:

  • Ramsar Convention: The Ramsar Convention on Wetlands is an international treaty that promotes the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands, including peatlands. It provides a framework for countries to designate protected areas and implement conservation measures.
  • Brazzaville Declaration: The Brazzaville Declaration, mentioned earlier, is a commitment by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Congo, and Indonesia to conserve and sustainably manage the peatlands in the Cuvette Centrale region.
  • United Nations Environment Assembly: The United Nations Environment Assembly brings together countries to address global environmental challenges. It has highlighted the importance of peatlands conservation and sustainable management as part of its efforts to combat climate change and promote biodiversity conservation.

These agreements and initiatives play a crucial role in raising awareness, establishing guidelines, and fostering international cooperation for the protection of peatlands in the Congo Basin and beyond.

Congo Basin Peatlands Climate Change

International Agreement/Initiative Objective Participating Countries
Ramsar Convention Promote conservation and sustainable use of wetlands, including peatlands 193 countries
Brazzaville Declaration Conserve and sustainably manage peatlands in the Cuvette Centrale region Democratic Republic of the Congo, Congo, Indonesia
United Nations Environment Assembly Address global environmental challenges and promote peatlands conservation 193 countries

Economic Value and Peatlands Preservation

Preserving the Congo Basin Peatlands is not just an environmental imperative – it also holds significant economic value. By assigning economic worth to these valuable ecosystems and implementing carbon pricing, we can deter harmful resource extraction and excessive land use change, while also fostering sustainable development and supporting local communities.

The long-term economic costs of damaging peatlands and other ecosystems far exceed the short-term financial gains from resource exploitation.

Assigning a price to carbon emissions allows governments and businesses to generate critical financial resources that can be directed towards supporting sustainable development initiatives and empowering local communities. This approach incentivizes responsible land use practices and discourages activities that contribute to the degradation of peatlands.’

By preserving and protecting the Congo Basin Peatlands, we not only mitigate the impacts of climate change but also contribute to sustainable economic development. These valuable ecosystems provide a range of ecosystem services, such as water storage and purification, flood prevention, and habitat protection, which have direct and indirect economic benefits that extend far beyond the peatlands themselves.

Key Benefits of Economic Valuation and Carbon Pricing

  • Promotes sustainable land management practices
  • Supports conservation efforts and biodiversity conservation
  • Provides financial resources for local communities
  • Encourages responsible resource extraction and land use
  • Contributes to climate change mitigation

In summary, recognizing the economic value of the Congo Basin Peatlands and implementing carbon pricing mechanisms is essential for preserving these vital ecosystems and ensuring a sustainable future for both the environment and local communities.

Congo Basin Peatlands Climate Change Image

Urgent Action for Peatland Conservation

The Congo Basin Peatlands are facing imminent threats and urgent action is required to protect and restore these vital ecosystems. Governments must prioritize the establishment of protected areas and implement robust conservation measures to safeguard the future of the peatlands. Cross-sector collaboration is essential in addressing the challenges posed by land use change and climate change, ensuring effective conservation efforts.

The degradation of peatlands in the Congo Basin has far-reaching consequences, including the release of greenhouse gas emissions and the loss of valuable carbon sinks. To counter these threats, immediate steps should be taken to prioritize peatland restoration projects and implement sustainable land management practices. These actions can help mitigate the impact of climate change and preserve the crucial role of peatlands in carbon sequestration.

To successfully conserve the Congo Basin Peatlands, collective action is necessary. Individuals can play a significant role by advocating for nature-friendly policies and supporting businesses that prioritize net-zero emissions. By participating in these efforts, individuals contribute to the preservation of these critical carbon sinks and create a sustainable future.

It is our responsibility to protect and restore the Congo Basin Peatlands for future generations. Urgent action is needed to ensure the conservation and restoration of these invaluable ecosystems. Together, we can make a difference and safeguard the health of our planet.

Key Conservation Measures:

  • Establishment of protected areas to prevent further degradation of peatlands
  • Implementation of sustainable land management practices to reduce the impact of land use change
  • Promotion of cross-sector collaboration to address the threats posed by climate change and land use change
  • Advocacy for nature-friendly policies at the governmental and international levels
  • Support for businesses that prioritize net-zero emissions and environmentally sustainable practices
  • Investment in peatland restoration projects to restore degraded peatlands to their original state

Congo Basin Peatlands Climate Change

By taking urgent action and implementing conservation measures, we can protect the Congo Basin Peatlands and ensure their role in climate change mitigation and biodiversity conservation. Let us unite to preserve these invaluable ecosystems for a sustainable future.

Discovering the Congo Basin Peatlands

In 2017, scientists made an astounding peatland discovery in the Congo Basin, uncovering an expansive area equivalent to the size of England. These newly revealed peatlands were found to harbor an impressive storage capacity, containing around 20 times more carbon than the annual emissions resulting from the combustion of fossil fuels in the United States. This groundbreaking research not only shed light on the significant role that the Congo Basin plays in addressing climate change but also provided invaluable insights into the immense carbon storage potential of these remarkable ecosystems.

Mapping and Understanding the Congo Basin Peatlands

The mapping and measurement of peatlands in the Congo Basin have provided valuable insights into their extent and carbon storage capacity. Covering approximately 167,600 square kilometers, these peatland complex represents 36% of the world’s tropical peatland area. In terms of carbon storage, these vast habitats store about 28% of the world’s tropical peat carbon.

The ongoing research endeavors aim to delve deeper into the formation of these peatlands, their response to climate shocks, and their role in maintaining climate resilience. Scientists are working tirelessly to unravel the intricate characteristics of the Congo Basin peatlands, shedding light on their significance in the context of climate change and the preservation of our planet.

Key Insights Data
Extent of Congo Basin Peatlands 167,600 square kilometers
Percentage of World’s Tropical Peatland Area Covered 36%
Percentage of World’s Tropical Peat Carbon Stored 28%

The comprehensive mapping and measurement of the Congo Basin peatlands have been pivotal in understanding the magnitude of their carbon storage and highlighting their role in climate resilience. This knowledge fuels further investigations and empowers conservation efforts aimed at protecting and conserving these critical ecosystems for generations to come.

Threats to the Future of Congo Basin Peatlands

The future of Congo Basin peatlands is uncertain due to the threats posed by land use change. These valuable ecosystems are increasingly at risk as concessions for agriculture, oil and gas exploration, and logging encroach upon their territories. The expansion of road networks and the installation of drainage systems further exacerbate the vulnerability of peatlands, altering their hydrodynamics and leading to the release of stored carbon.

By indulging in unsustainable practices, we jeopardize the long-term preservation of these vital ecosystems. It is imperative that we embrace sustainable land management practices and engage in careful planning to mitigate the adverse effects of land use change. By doing so, we can ensure the resilience and conservation of the Congo Basin peatlands for future generations to come.

The Impact of Land Use Change on Peatlands

Land use change, including agricultural expansion, oil and gas exploration, and logging, has severe implications for the future of Congo Basin peatlands. These activities encroach upon vast peatland areas, disrupting their delicate balance and leading to irreversible damage.

Agricultural expansion poses a significant threat as the demand for food production continues to rise. The conversion of peatlands for agriculture not only destroys valuable habitats but also contributes to the release of carbon stored in the peat, exacerbating climate change.

Oil and gas exploration activities, characterized by the construction of infrastructure and the extraction of resources, further disrupt peatland ecosystems. These activities often require the establishment of road networks, increasing fragmentation and opening previously untouched areas to further degradation.

Logging, another major concern, directly impacts peatland integrity by removing vegetation cover. Without the protective blanket of vegetation, peatlands become more susceptible to erosion and the loss of their carbon storage capacity.

The Importance of Sustainable Land Management

Implementing sustainable land management practices is crucial to safeguard the future of Congo Basin peatlands. By prioritizing conservation efforts and adopting sustainable land use practices, we can minimize further degradation and preserve the essential functions of these ecosystems.

Collaboration between government entities, local communities, and industry stakeholders is essential to ensure responsible land use and promote sustainable development. Encouraging the adoption of sustainable agricultural practices, regulating oil and gas exploration activities, and promoting responsible logging practices are crucial steps towards mitigating the threats to peatlands.

Additionally, promoting conservation and restoration efforts in the Congo Basin plays a vital role in preserving the unique biodiversity and ecosystem services provided by peatlands. These initiatives can help maintain the carbon storage capacity of peatlands and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Quotes

“We must protect and preserve Congo Basin peatlands by rejecting unsustainable land use practices and embracing sustainable land management. The future of these ecosystems depends on our collective efforts to safeguard their integrity and harness their potential in mitigating climate change.” – Conservationist

“By valuing the importance of peatlands and adopting sustainable practices, we can ensure the long-term preservation of these ecosystems. Let us protect Congo Basin peatlands for the sake of our environment and future generations.” – Environmental Activist

The Need for Increased Protection and Conservation Efforts

While there have been international agreements and ongoing conservation efforts to safeguard the Congo Basin peatlands, it is imperative to recognize the need for further action to protect and conserve these crucial ecosystems. Expanding the network of protected areas and implementing sustainable land management practices are integral steps towards preserving the integrity of the peatlands and mitigating the impacts of climate change.

Governments, local communities, and international organizations must collaborate in a concerted effort to address the pressing challenges of peatlands degradation and ensure the long-term conservation of this vital carbon sink. By working together, we can establish effective strategies and initiatives that safeguard the biodiversity and ecological balance of the Congo Basin peatlands.

The Role of Protected Areas

Expanding the network of protected areas within the Congo Basin is a crucial step towards conserving its peatlands. By designating specific regions as protected areas, we can establish legally recognized zones that prioritize the conservation of these unique ecosystems. Protected areas provide a sanctuary for diverse plant and animal species, offering them a safe haven from activities that may lead to their degradation or destruction.

The Importance of Sustainable Land Management

Sustainable land management practices play a pivotal role in maintaining the health and resilience of the Congo Basin peatlands. By promoting sustainable agricultural practices, responsible logging techniques, and minimizing the impact of oil and gas exploration, we can reduce the threats posed by land use change. Adopting sustainable land management practices not only ensures the preservation of the peatlands but also supports the livelihoods of local communities that depend on these ecosystems.

Implementing sustainable land management measures requires a comprehensive approach that balances environmental conservation with economic development. By establishing clear guidelines and regulations, encouraging community participation, and providing incentives for sustainable practices, we can ensure the long-term viability of the peatlands while promoting sustainable livelihoods.

Collaboration for Conservation

Addressing the challenges faced by the Congo Basin peatlands requires collaboration on multiple levels. Governments, local communities, and international organizations must join forces to share knowledge, resources, and expertise. Together, we can develop comprehensive conservation strategies, conduct scientific research, and implement innovative solutions to tackle the threats facing these precious ecosystems.

Key Initiatives for the Conservation of Congo Basin Peatlands
Initiative Description
Congolese-German cooperation project Aims to enhance the management and protection of the peatlands through capacity building and sustainable land-use planning.
Congo Basin Peatland Project Seeks to improve the understanding and management of the peatlands through scientific research, monitoring, and collaboration.
Brazzaville Declaration Aims to promote the conservation and sustainable management of the Cuvette Centrale region, which encompasses a significant portion of the Congo Basin peatlands.

“Conserving the Congo Basin peatlands is not just a responsibility, but an opportunity to safeguard a globally significant carbon sink and protect the invaluable biodiversity these ecosystems support.” – Dr. Jane Goodall

By strengthening existing initiatives and fostering new partnerships, we can ensure the long-term protection and conservation of the Congo Basin peatlands, making a positive impact on climate change mitigation and the preservation of biodiversity.

Conclusion

Congo Basin Peatlands Climate Change and the associated degradation and land use change pose significant threats to these valuable ecosystems. However, through urgent and concerted efforts, we can protect and restore the Congo Basin peatlands, ensuring their critical role in carbon sequestration, conservation efforts, and climate resilience.

Preserving these peatlands is crucial for mitigating climate change. By acting now, we can establish protected areas, implement sustainable land management practices, and promote carbon pricing initiatives to deter harmful activities. The sequestration capacity of the Congo Basin peatlands is immense, making them a powerful tool in our fight against climate change.

Conservation is key in maintaining the biodiversity and ecosystem services provided by the peatlands. Protecting these areas supports the survival of diverse plant and animal species and ensures the provision of essential ecosystem services, such as water storage and purification.

To secure the long-term health and resilience of our planet, we must prioritize the preservation of the Congo Basin peatlands. By valuing the carbon sequestration, conservation efforts, and climate resilience these ecosystems provide, we can contribute to a sustainable future for the Congo Basin region and the global community as a whole.

FAQ

What is the role of Congo Basin peatlands in climate change?

Congo Basin peatlands play a crucial role in carbon sequestration and mitigating climate change. They store around 29 billion tons of carbon, making them the world’s largest tropical peatlands. These peatlands act as effective carbon sinks, absorbing more carbon than they emit, and help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Why are peatlands in the Congo Basin important?

Peatlands in the Congo Basin are vital for carbon sequestration as they store approximately three years’ worth of global greenhouse gas emissions. They also support biodiversity conservation, provide essential ecosystem services, and act as valuable carbon sinks. Preserving and sustainably managing these peatlands is crucial for mitigating climate change and conserving biodiversity.

What are the threats to Congo Basin peatlands?

Congo Basin peatlands face threats from drainage for agriculture, vegetation removal, and alteration. These activities contribute to peatlands degradation and the release of carbon dioxide through oxidization or fires. Land use change, such as oil and gas exploration, logging, and potential agricultural expansion, further endanger the conservation of these peatlands.

How do peatlands contribute to climate change mitigation?

Peatlands contribute to climate change mitigation by acting as significant carbon sinks. Restoring and conserving degraded peatlands can reduce global greenhouse gas emissions by 800 million metric tons per year. Peatlands store twice as much carbon as all the world’s forests, making them vital for carbon sequestration and mitigating climate change.

What international agreements and efforts are in place to protect Congo Basin peatlands?

In 2018, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Congo, and Indonesia signed the Brazzaville Declaration to promote the conservation and sustainable management of the Cuvette Centrale region, which houses a significant portion of the peatlands. The United Nations Environment Assembly has also emphasized the need for conservation, sustainable management, and restoration of peatlands worldwide.

How can economic value and carbon pricing support peatlands preservation?

Assigning economic value to peatlands and implementing carbon pricing can deter harmful resource extraction and excessive land use change. By placing a price on carbon emissions, governments and businesses can provide critical financial resources to support local communities and sustainable development initiatives. Protecting peatlands not only has environmental benefits but also contributes to sustainable economic development.

What urgent actions are needed for peatland conservation in the Congo Basin?

Urgent actions for peatland conservation in the Congo Basin include prioritizing the establishment of protected areas, strengthening conservation measures, and implementing sustainable land management practices. Cross-sector collaboration and individual advocacy for nature-friendly policies are also essential for addressing threats posed by land use change and climate change.

How were the vast extent and carbon storage capacity of Congo Basin peatlands discovered?

In 2017, scientists discovered the vast extent of peatlands in the Congo Basin, covering an area the size of England. The mapping and measurement of these peatlands allowed scientists to better understand their carbon storage capacity. These peatlands hold about 20 times more carbon than the annual emissions from burning fossil fuels in the United States.

How are Congo Basin peatlands mapped and understood?

Mapping and measurement efforts have revealed that the Congo Basin peatlands cover 167,600 square kilometers, accounting for 36% of the world’s tropical peatland area. Ongoing research aims to investigate their formation, response to climate shocks, and their role in maintaining climate resilience. These efforts help us better comprehend their extent and carbon storage capacity.

What threatens the future of Congo Basin peatlands?

The future of Congo Basin peatlands is threatened by activities such as agriculture, oil and gas exploration, and logging, which cover a significant portion of their area. These activities can alter the hydrodynamics of peatlands, leading to the release of stored carbon. Sustainable land management practices and careful planning are necessary to ensure their long-term preservation.

What measures are needed to increase the protection and conservation of Congo Basin peatlands?

Increased protection and conservation measures for Congo Basin peatlands involve expanding protected areas and implementing sustainable land management practices. These efforts are essential for preserving the integrity of these ecosystems, mitigating climate change impacts, and conserving their carbon storage capacity.

What is the significance of preserving the Congo Basin peatlands?

Preserving the Congo Basin peatlands is crucial for carbon sequestration, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience. They play a critical role in mitigating climate change by storing significant amounts of carbon. Conservation efforts will contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and ensuring the long-term health of our planet.

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