Study Finds China’s Planted Forests Grow 66% Faster Than Natural Ones
Updated
Updated · Livescience.com · Jun 30
Study Finds China’s Planted Forests Grow 66% Faster Than Natural Ones
1 articles · Updated · Livescience.com · Jun 30
Summary
Satellite data showed planted forests in China increased leaf area index 66% faster than natural forests, highlighting a sharp growth gap in forests tied to the country’s vast reforestation drive.
Most of that advantage came from planted forests being younger, but even under similar ages and growing conditions they still grew 4.6% faster, with the gap strongest in mixed and evergreen forests.
Fast-growing species, vegetation clearing and fertilization appear to amplify trees’ response to rising CO2, with the planted-forest edge peaking around ages 30 to 40 before fading after 40.
Natural forests still grow more steadily over time and may remain better for long-term carbon storage and resilience, while outside researchers cautioned leaf area alone does not capture all carbon held in wood, roots and soil.
The findings could reshape climate and carbon-accounting models as China expands its Great Green Wall program, which has planted 66 billion trees since 1978 and plans 34 billion more by mid-century.
China's 'Green Wall' grows fast, but is it creating 'green deserts' for the future?
If fast growth is a flawed metric, how should we measure the true success of reforestation for planetary health?
How can we ensure multi-billion dollar reforestation funds are healing the planet, not just planting tree farms?
China’s 8 Million Hectare Forest Gain: Achievements, Trade-Offs, and Lessons from the World’s Largest Reforestation Drive
Overview
Since 1978, China has launched an ambitious reforestation journey, implementing extensive afforestation efforts to combat desertification and greatly expand its forest cover. Central to this progress are large-scale projects like the Great Green Wall and the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program, which slow desertification and highlight China’s strong commitment to ecological restoration and environmental sustainability. China’s comprehensive approach prioritizes expanding tree cover and enhancing forest quality, ensuring that reforestation is both effective and sustainable. These coordinated actions have transformed vast landscapes, demonstrating how targeted national strategies can drive significant environmental change.