Calif. Seeks to Combat Deforestation

FRESNO, Calif. (KMJ) — The California Air Resources Board now says tropical deforestation is the top cause of global climate change.

It’s considering allowing companies to purchase credits in the carbon trading system, when deforestation is controlled in Brazil, Mexico, or other countries.

Tropical forests are said to be one of the major carbon sinks, and their destruction, often by fire, contributes up to 14% of global carbon emissions.

California’s 12 cap-and-trade auctions have generated $2.9 billion, which will be used for greenhouse gas reduction efforts.