Trees planted as part of China's massive reforestation projects are growing faster than those in natural forests, according to a new study. Researchers believe the trees respond more strongly to rising carbon dioxide levels.
Since 1978, China has planted 66 billion trees under its Great Green Wall project to combat desert expansion, with plans to add 34 billion more by 2050. Scientists say understanding the differences between planted and natural forests will help improve climate models and carbon reduction strategies.
Planted forests are those purposefully created by humans, such as those in the Great Green Wall. Natural forests, on the other hand, grow without human intervention.
The researchers used satellite data to track leaf area index, a measure of canopy density and a key driver of carbon uptake, to determine how fast the different forest types grew, and found a striking difference: Planted forests increased their leaf area 66% faster than natural ones.
Planted forests grow faster because they are carefully managed with fast-growing tree species, reduced competition, and fertilization. Their growth is highest between 30 and 40 years of age before slowing after 40, while natural forests grow more slowly but remain more consistent over the long term.
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