Global climate governance has disproportionately prioritised forests over other critical ecosystems. Critically examine how this bias affects climate mitigation, biodiversity conservation and climate justice, with reference to grasslands and savannahs.

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Introduction

Global climate governance, including frameworks like the UNFCCC and REDD+, has historically prioritised forest conservation as a primary tool for carbon sequestration. While forests are vital carbon sinks, this bias overlooks other critical ecosystems such as grasslands and savannahs, which support biodiversity, regulate water cycles, and store significant soil carbon.

Impacts on Climate Mitigation

Carbon Storage: Grasslands store up to 30% of terrestrial carbon in soils; neglecting them risks emissions from degradation.
Fire Management: Mismanagement of savannahs can lead to uncontrolled biomass burning, releasing greenhouse gases.

Impacts on Biodiversity Conservation

Grasslands and savannahs host unique flora and fauna, including endangered species like the Indian Great Indian Bustard. Forest-centric policies divert resources, leaving these ecosystems under-protected.
Fragmentation and conversion to agriculture reduce habitat connectivity, undermining ecological resilience.

Climate Justice Considerations

Indigenous and pastoral communities depend on grasslands for livelihoods; forest-centric schemes often restrict traditional land use, marginalising local populations.
Disproportionate funding and international recognition exacerbate inequities in adaptation and compensation mechanisms.

Way Forward

Integrate grasslands and savannahs into national climate strategies and international carbon accounting.
Support community-led conservation, sustainable grazing, and fire management practices.
Promote ecosystem-based approaches that balance mitigation, biodiversity, and justice.

Recognising non-forest ecosystems ensures holistic climate action, equitable resource allocation, and long-term resilience of both human and ecological systems.

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