Space detectives delve into mystery of missing carbon

By Robert S. Boyd | McClatchy Newspapers

WASHINGTON — For years, scientists have been trying to solve what they call the ``Mystery of the Missing Sinks.''

No, they're not talking about misplaced kitchenware. These ``sinks'' are the world's forests, pastures, crops and soil, which soak up the excess carbon — in the form of carbon dioxide — that's a major driver of global warming. Even golf courses and suburban lawns serve as carbon sinks.