From Carbon Accounting to Net Cooling: Securing the Albedo-Carbon Double Win in Canada's Boreal Forest

<jats:p>Canada's large-scale afforestation and reforestation efforts are central to its climate commitments. Yet, current practices measure carbon storage without fully accounting for surface heat absorption or wildfire vulnerability, creating a strategic risk where forests may appear climate-positive but deliver weaker or unstable cooling. Long-term modelling demonstrates that mixed-species forests containing 25-40 percent deciduous trees, planted at moderate densities, consistently deliver stronger and more durable climate cooling than dense evergreen monocultures. Mixed stands store substantial carbon, reflect more winter sunlight, and reduce fire intensity. Conversely, dense evergreen plantations absorb more solar radiation and intensify fuel continuity, increasing warming and wildfire risk. To secure true climate benefits, Canada is encouraged to shift from a carbon-quantity approach to a Net Cooling standard that integrates carbon storage, surface reflectivity, and permanence screening to ensure durable mitigation.</jats:p>