Science

Wildfires cause Amazon to emit 1.17 billion more metric tons of CO₂ than it absorbs

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Based on a feed excerpt; full article content has not been acquired. Source evidence retrieved 22/10/2026, 17:10:25 UTC.

Briefings

Research indicates that Amazon rainforest emissions from wildfires between 2010 and 2024 exceeded its carbon absorption capacity by 1.17 billion metric tons annually. Wildfires alone emitted approximately 1.47 billion metric tons of CO2, surpassing the forest's natural absorption rate of 300 million metric tons per year. This net loss represents a significant shift in the Amazon's carbon balance during this period.

Key points

• Wildfires emitted 1.47 billion metric tons of CO2 annually between 2010 and 2024, exceeding the Amazon's absorption capacity of 300 million metric tons per year.
• The Amazon released an average of 1.17 billion metric tons more CO2 than it absorbed from 2010 to 2024, driven primarily by fire activity.

Context

This analysis examines the Amazon rainforest's carbon balance from 2010 to 2024, highlighting how wildfire emissions drove a net carbon loss of 1.17 billion metric tons annually. The study uses satellite data to track forest carbon uptake versus fire-related emissions, revealing a critical tipping point where fire activity overwhelmed natural absorption mechanisms.

Limitations

Data covers only 2010-2024, limiting long-term trend analysis. Preprint status means findings may evolve with new research. Uncertainty exists in precise fire emission attribution and absorption rates due to measurement constraints.

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