Large ecosystems such as the Amazon rainforest could collapse in less than 50 years once a crucial tipping point is reached, scientists have said.
They used computer simulations and real-world data from 40 natural environments.
The experts said some systems are collapsing at a “significantly faster rate” than thought and could transform into “an alternative ecosystem”.
The 2.1 million square mile Amazon rainforest could shift to “a savannah-type ecosystem with a mix of trees and grass” in just 49 years.
And the Caribbean coral reefs, of 7,700 square miles, could become bleached and sparsely populated in just 15 years.
Dr Simon Willcock, of Bangor University, said: “Our paper reveals that humanity needs to prepare for changes far sooner than expected.
“These rapid changes to the world’s largest ecosystems would impact the benefits which they provide us with, from food and materials, to the oxygen and water we need for life.”
Forest fires in Australia and the Amazon, which destroyed nearly 20 million hectares, show ecosystems are struggling to cope with climate change, scientists warn.
Professor John Dearing, of Southampton University, said: “The messages here are stark.
“We need to prepare for changes in our planet’s ecosystems that are faster than we previously envisaged.”
- A UN report said 2015-2019 were the five warmest years on record and 2010-2019 was the hottest decade ever recorded
