Forests contribute to the carbon cycle primarily by acting as what?

Forests contribute to the carbon cycle primarily by acting as carbon sinks. This means that forests absorb more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than they release. Through the process of photosynthesis, trees and plants use sunlight to convert carbon dioxide into oxygen and glucose, sequestering carbon in their biomass (trunks, branches, leaves, and roots). This process plays a crucial role in regulating atmospheric carbon levels, helping to mitigate climate change by reducing the concentration of greenhouse gases.

In addition to this absorption, when trees grow, they store carbon in their tissues, which can remain locked away for many years, further aiding in the reduction of atmospheric carbon. The health and management of forest ecosystems are therefore vital for maintaining this carbon sink function, emphasizing the importance of protecting forested areas as part of climate change mitigation strategies.