"Great potential" seen in EU carbon sinks

A first official estimate of total EU carbon sink capacity shows that forests and other vegetation absorb 20-30% of the bloc's annual fossil fuel emissions, European research commissioner Philippe Busquin announced yesterday. There is "great potential" for further increasing this capacity, Mr Busquin added.

Though EU debate on climate has focused far more on emissions reduction than absorption, it is thought that some member states would like to make significant use of sinks to offset their gas reduction targets. France, Finland and possibly Sweden are reported to be likely candidates.