Recent Advances in Dendrochronology Focus on Climate and Environmental Governance

Here, we present a comprehensive dendrochronological framework developed in Ecuador and expanded globally to inform climate and environmental governance. We begin with the anatomical characterization of Ecuadorian forest species using a multivariate STATIS dual approach, demonstrating how wood anatomical traits reveal adaptation and climate response. We then analyze tree-ring width (TRW) and vessel variables in Vachellia macracantha from dry forests in southern Ecuador, showing that TRW and anatomy together provide robust climatic signals. Stable isotope chronologies (δ¹³C and δ¹⁸O) are subsequently used to uncover physiological responses to hydric stress and environmental heterogeneity. Building on these findings, we introduce DendroRegulation, an initiative rooted in dendroclimatic evidence from Handroanthus chrysanthus and Bursera graveolens that supports the enhancement of COA regulations in Ecuador. DendroRegulation has evolved into a global collaboration, uniting scientists to propose evidence-based amendments for environmental standards. The initiative also promotes capacity building through annual ECUADENDRO conferences and the DendroCopa scholarship program. Together, these efforts demonstrate a pathway from tree-ring science to actionable governance in tropical ecosystems.