EPS Seminar Series: Dr Sara Knox
Dr Sara Knox
Department of Geography, Â鶹AVÌý
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Friday, March 15Ìý
11: 00 am
FDA 232Ìý (in person)Ìýand Zoom:
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Wetlands in a changing world: Processes, feedbacks and the climate benefits of wetlands
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Abstract: Among the numerous ecosystem services provided by wetlands climate regulation is identified as one of their most important benefits to society. Wetland ecosystems play an important role in the global carbon cycle; they provide the ideal environment for long-term storage of atmospheric CO2, yet they are also the largest single source of methane. Climate change could increase greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from wetlands, however, the consequences of rising temperatures on wetland GHG exchange remain uncertain. Furthermore, preventing further wetland loss and restoring wetland ecosystems has been identified as important in limiting future emissions to help meet climate goals. This talk presents research that combines field-based measurements, remote sensing, and modelling to provide new insights into the controls of wetland GHG fluxes across a range of spatial and temporal scales and quantify the potential climate benefits of wetland restoration and conservation. This research is key to better predicting current and future contributions of wetlands to climate change, which is highly relevant for policies aiming to limit the level of global temperature rise.
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