A review of carbon dynamics and REDD+ projects in the Miombo Ecoregion, Africa: opportunities and challenges

Background Southern Africa’s extensive miombo woodland ecosystem is vital to global carbon sequestration but faces escalating threats from deforestation, degradation, and climate change. To successfully implement Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) initiatives and support local livelihoods, critical knowledge gaps in carbon dynamics and conservation strategies must be addressed. Aims This review synthesizes current knowledge on carbon dynamics in the miombo ecosystem and evaluates the opportunities and challenges for REDD+ implementation. Methods A systematic review of published literature and recent assessments was conducted, focusing on carbon storage in above and belowground biomass (AGB and BGB) and soils, and on the socio-ecological drivers influencing sequestration. Key results Miombo ecosystems sequester 0.5–1.2 t ha−1 year−1 of carbon, with variability driven by rainfall, soil fertility and disturbance history. Sustainable management could secure 6–10 Pg of carbon globally. However, anthropogenic pressures, including fuelwood extraction, charcoal production and shifting cultivation, constrain carbon accounting and policy integration. Conclusions Effective REDD+ implementation requires robust measurement frameworks, equitable benefit-sharing and strong community participation. Addressing these challenges is critical to advancing climate mitigation and biodiversity conservation. Implications Investing in the long-term viability of miombo woodlands offers a dual opportunity: advancing global climate action while strengthening local livelihoods and promoting sustainable regional development.