Addressing Both Climate and Land-Use Change Is Crucial for Conserving Southeast Asian Tree Species

New Research Shows the Pathway to Saving Southeast Asia's Forests

A recent study, published in the journal Nature Sustainability, has unveiled the critical importance of mitigating both climate and land-use changes to preserve the diverse tree species of Southeast Asia. The study, led by Dr. Sean E. H. Pang, a researcher at Aarhus University’s Center for Ecological Dynamics in a Novel Biosphere (ECONOVO), presents alarming projections for the region's biodiversity if current global trends continue unchecked.

Key Insights:

• The study modelled the future distributions of 1,498 tree species across Southeast Asia under various global change scenarios, known as Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs).
• Results indicate that significant species losses are expected under all but the most sustainable scenario (SSP1–2.6), which integrates low-intensity climate and land-use changes.
• Contrary to expectations, the worst impacts were observed not under the most extreme climate scenario (SSP5–8.5), but under intermediate pathways (SSP2–4.5 and SSP3–7.0), where extensive land-use change, such as agricultural expansion, exacerbated species losses.
• Species groups in coastal and montane regions are identified as being particularly vulnerable, with those restricted to the Sundaic tropics facing the highest risk of extinction.

What This Means for Conservation: The study highlights the urgent need for conservation strategies that address both climate change and land-use impacts simultaneously. Dr. Pang emphasises that a narrow focus on mitigating only one of these global challenges could lead to unintended consequences, worsening the situation for Southeast Asia’s forests.

The findings underscore the necessity of striving for the SSP1–2.6 pathway, which promotes sustainable development and offers the best outcomes for tree species conservation. This approach involves reducing greenhouse gas emissions, protecting remaining forest areas, and implementing sustainable agricultural practices.

A Call for Targeted Action: Conservation efforts must be tailored to the specific needs of different species groups, particularly those in high-risk areas like the Sundaic region. Effective measures include protecting existing habitats, reforestation, and integrating conservation with sustainable land management practices.

Dr. Pang’s research provides a vital roadmap for policymakers and conservationists to prioritize actions that will safeguard Southeast Asia’s rich biodiversity. As the region faces the dual threats of climate change and land-use alterations, this study offers critical guidance on how to navigate these challenges.

For Further Information: The full study, "Conserving Southeast Asian trees requires mitigating both climate and land-use change," can be accessed in Nature Sustainability at https://www.nature.com/articles/s41893-024-01417-4.