Global IUCN Report Warns Over One-Third of Tree Species at Risk of Extinction, Threatening Ecosystems and Economies

A recent global assessment by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reveals that over one-third of tree species worldwide are at risk of extinction. This alarming statistic highlights a significant threat to ecosystems, biodiversity, and economies across the globe.

The assessment shows that approximately 38% of all tree species face dangers from various factors, including climate change, deforestation, invasive species, pests, and diseases. These threats affect nearly every country, emphasizing the widespread nature of the crisis.

Trees are critical to maintaining ecological balance, accounting for over a quarter of the species listed on the IUCN’s Red List. The number of threatened tree species is more than double that of threatened birds, mammals, reptiles, and amphibians combined. The loss of tree populations poses a dire risk to numerous plants, fungi, and animals, as trees play a vital role in essential ecosystem processes.

They contribute significantly to carbon sequestration, nutrient cycling, soil formation, and climate regulation, with studies indicating that 100 trees can remove substantial amounts of air pollutants each year.

Experts stress the interconnectedness of trees and various species, emphasizing that healthy forests are vital for mitigating climate change and halting biodiversity loss. Dr. Dave Hole from Conservation International’s Moore Center for Science highlighted the necessity of thriving forests in addressing these dual crises.

The increasing number of threatened tree species included in the IUCN Red List is a significant concern, as the loss of biodiversity could exacerbate climate-related challenges, leading to more severe environmental threats.

Moreover, the economic implications of tree loss cannot be overlooked. The IUCN reports that over 5,000 tree species on the Red List are utilized for timber, while more than 2,000 species provide essential resources such as food, medicine, and fuel.

Despite commitments made by world leaders in 2021 to end deforestation by 2030, the reality remains grim. In the previous year alone, 6.37 million hectares of forest were permanently lost, indicating a lack of significant progress toward these goals and highlighting the urgent need for effective action.

The IUCN’s assessment involved contributions from over 1,000 tree experts and was funded by the nonprofit Fondation Franklinia. Foundation Director General Jean-Christophe Vié urged immediate action based on the findings of the assessment.

He pointed out that while tree planting is often seen as a straightforward solution to climate change, the approach to reforestation must improve. This includes diversifying species planted and incorporating threatened species into reforestation efforts. By doing so, governments, companies, and other stakeholders can create a positive impact, addressing both the climate change and biodiversity crises effectively.