Forestation's Climate Benefits Not as High as Previously Thought, Studies Show
Recent research indicates that the positive impact of forestation on climate change might be up to 30% less effective due to complex side effects.
- New studies reveal that forestation's role in absorbing CO2 and mitigating climate change is partially offset by factors such as changes in land surface reflectivity and atmospheric chemistry.
- The effectiveness of forestation varies with latitude, showing more favorable potential in the tropics but potentially leading to net warming at higher latitudes.
- Preventing deforestation is identified as a more efficient climate change mitigation strategy compared to reforestation.
- The studies underscore the importance of combining forestation efforts with other climate change mitigation strategies for more effective long-term action.
- Despite the limitations, forestation still offers numerous benefits for biodiversity, water management, and ecosystem services.
New Scientist 
The Conversation 
