Final answer:
The potential of afforestation and reforestation is significant in mitigating fossil fuel emissions. These practices, along with soil management and carbon capture technologies, can increase carbon sequestration and reduce atmospheric CO₂. However, public and private policies must be aligned to prevent leakage and incentivize sustainable management of forests.
Step-by-step explanation:
The potential for afforestation and reforestation to mitigate fossil fuel emissions globally is significant. Forests act as carbon sinks, absorbing CO₂ from the atmosphere. By planting new forests (afforestation) and restoring lost ones (reforestation), it's possible to increase the rate at which carbon is sequestered from the atmosphere. Furthermore, emissions reduction strategies, including the conservation of current forests and advances in technology such as direct air capture and carbon capture, are crucial for a sustainable approach to mitigating climate change.
For example, MIT's Climate Portal suggests natural regeneration as a promising solution because it promotes native biodiversity. With a well-managed biosphere, extensive reforestation and other measures, it is possible to withdraw a substantial amount of atmospheric carbon. There are technical challenges, such as ensuring a solution does not shift deforestation from one area to another (leakage), and the need for a mix of public and private policies to protect forests and incentivize sustainable practices.
Finally, eroded soils can also contribute to the carbon sink capacity, offsetting up to 10% of the global fossil fuel CO₂ emissions. Integrating soil-friendly tillage practices increases soil carbon capacity and can further help in offsetting emissions. Tackling issues like tropical deforestation, which account for a significant percentage of annual emissions, is therefore crucial in reducing greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.