Recent research has unveiled new maps indicating 195 million hectares worldwide, optimal for reforestation, which could sequester 2.2 billion tonnes of CO2 annually. Unlike previous extensive claims, this conservative mapping tool identifies areas that won't disrupt ecosystems or local communities. This targeted approach focuses on dense, closed-canopy regions, excluding recent wildfire sites and aiming to minimize social conflict. It asserts that although reforestation is vital, it cannot replace the urgent need to cut fossil fuel emissions, as established by Dr. Susan Cook-Patton from The Nature Conservancy.
"The researchers behind the new maps built on previous work but employed a deliberately conservative approach in order to shine a spotlight on those places with the highest potential and the fewest problems."
"Reforestation opportunity maps are crucial because regrowing trees is the largest and cheapest option for taking CO2 out of the atmosphere, but tree initiatives need to focus on the most suitable areas to maximise their impact."
#reforestation #climate-change #environmental-conservation #carbon-sequestration #sustainable-development
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