---
title: "Carbon Sink Definition and Importance | Model Diplomat"
description: "A carbon sink absorbs more CO2 than it releases, crucial for combating climate change. Discover its role in international climate agreements."
url: "https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/carbon-sink"
---

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Model Diplomat Research Team · Last reviewed June 22, 2026

TL;DR

- A carbon sink is a natural or artificial reservoir that absorbs and stores more atmospheric carbon dioxide than it releases, thereby reducing net greenhouse gas concentrations.
- What is the difference between a carbon sink and a carbon source?
- What is India's carbon sink target under the Paris Agreement?
- What is blue carbon?
- Which treaty provisions govern carbon sinks?

[Civil Service & Diplomatic Exams](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/civil-services/glossary)Updated June 22, 2026

A carbon sink is a natural or artificial reservoir that absorbs and stores more atmospheric carbon dioxide than it releases, thereby reducing net greenhouse gas concentrations.

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In its updated NDC submitted to the UNFCCC in 2022, India committed to creating an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent through additional forest and tree cover by 2030.

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