Boreal forests are also an important carbon sink. Like all forests they absorb carbon dioxide –a main contributor to global warming and climate change—removing it from the atmosphere and helping to keep the entire planet healthy.

Why is it important to protect the boreal forest?

The boreal forest plays a critical role in protecting our climate from carbon emissions. The entire Canadian boreal contains over 300 billion tons of carbon. And in that number, it's hard to get your head around, but it is essentially as much carbon as the world emits over 36 years.

How do boreal forests benefit humans?

Boreal forests also provide critical services to local, regional, and global populations. Communities, including those of Indigenous people, benefit from ecosystem services provided by the forest for fishing, hunting, gathering, leisure, spiritual activities, medicines, and economic opportunities.