Options for Forest Management for Coping with Climate Change in South Asia

Abstract

Projected climate change will adversely impact distribution and diversity of forests in South Asia. It may also lead to increase in vulnerability to pests and pathogens including risks of forest dieback. While there may be short-term increase in biomass production because of the CO2 fertilization effect, eventually climate change will reduce NPP. Thus, there is a strong need for identification of adaptation strategies to minimize risks of forest fragmentation. Research priorities include development of dynamic vegetation models, and initiation of long-term experiments. Identification of appropriate policies is essential to minimize the adverse impacts of climate change on forest production.