A new study reveals that the collapse of tropical forests 252 million years ago was a warning sign for life on Earth, leading to the “Great Dying” mass extinction event. The research suggests that the loss of these forests would lead to devastating climate change and accelerated warming.
The study found that intense global warming triggered by volcanic activity in Siberia led to the demise of tropical forests, which then limited carbon sequestration – a process that removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This reduced photosynthesis, allowing CO2 levels to build up further, driving excess warming.
Scientists warn that if rapid warming causes tropical forests to collapse again, it may be impossible for our climate to cool to pre-industrial levels. The study’s findings have significant implications for current efforts to mitigate climate change.
According to Professor Benjamin Mills of the University of Leeds, “If we stop emitting CO2, but continue to warm due to rapid forest collapse, we may not expect our climate to recover.”
Source: https://eu.usatoday.com/story/news/weather/2025/07/04/forest-loss-fueled-great-dying-mass-extinction-study-says/84446862007