High economic costs of reduced carbon sinks and declining biome stability in Central American forests

Tropical forests provide crucial ecosystem services, including carbon sequestration and biodiversity support. This study uses monetary estimates to project the impact of climate change on these services in Central American forests until 2100. Results indicate ES declines in 24–62% of the region, with economic costs ranging from $51–314 billion/year. Montane and dry forests are particularly affected, with losses potentially exceeding 335% of GDP for some lower-middle-income countries. Habitat services show greater economic losses than climate regulation, highlighting the need for broader focus beyond CO2 sequestration.

Lukas Baumbach, Thomas Hickler, Rasoul Yousefpour, Marc Hanewinkel