Final answer:
The potential for afforestation/reforestation to mitigate fossil fuel emissions globally is high. These efforts are critical in acting as carbon sinks to absorb CO2 and in reducing global deforestation needed for climate change mitigation and biodiversity conservation.
Step-by-step explanation:
The potential for afforestation/reforestation to mitigate fossil fuel emissions globally is relatively high. Afforestation and reforestation have a significant role in acting as carbon sinks, absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere. With the current high levels of deforestation, particularly in tropical regions, and the resulting increase in CO2 levels, a major reduction in global deforestation is essential for both climate change mitigation and biodiversity conservation. Initiatives like REDD (Reductions in Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation) and increased funding for worldwide reforestation are crucial in addressing these emissions. Restoration of forest landscapes is becoming increasingly feasible as carbon markets grow, which will support the sustainability of biodiversity and human land uses. It is clear that reforestation, alongside minimizing fossil fuel use and switching to clean energy, can help reduce atmospheric CO2 concentrations significantly.