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Boreal Resilience: Carbon Sinks in a Warming North

CERC Research Office June 2026 1 min read

Canada’s northern peatlands are among the world’s most significant carbon stores. This multi-year study examines how their capacity to sequester carbon is changing as permafrost layers fluctuate.

The findings underscore the importance of protecting intact boreal systems as a climate-stabilising asset.

References

  1. Tarnocai, C. et al. Soil Organic Carbon Pools in the Northern Circumpolar Permafrost Region. Global Biogeochemical Cycles. 2009.
  2. IPCC. Sixth Assessment Report, Working Group I: The Physical Science Basis. IPCC. 2021.
  3. Natural Resources Canada. Canada’s Forests. Government of Canada. 2024.
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CERC Research Office

The CERC Research Office publishes peer-reviewed policy briefings on behalf of the Council's fellows across Canada.

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