Afforestation, as a human activity, is the deliberate establishment of forest stands on lands that have not recently been forested, typically through planned site preparation, selection of tree species, and controlled planting or seeding. It is implemented for purposes such as carbon sequestration, soil stabilization, hydrological regulation, timber production, and biodiversity enhancement within managed landscapes. Afforestation projects are characterized by anthropogenic decision-making regarding stand composition, spatial configuration, and silvicultural regimes, often embedded in policy frameworks for climate mitigation, land-use change management, or ecosystem restoration. This activity is distinct from natural succession and reforestation, which target previously forested areas that have been disturbed or cleared.
University of Queensland research shows emissions from the global chocolate industry could be reduced by growing more shade trees over farms in the region that supplies 60% of the world's cocoa.
Ecology
Aug 6, 2025
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86
New forests larger than the land area of North America would need to be planted to offset the potential carbon dioxide emissions from the fossil fuel reserves currently held by the world's 200 largest fossil fuel companies.
Environment
Jun 19, 2025
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78
New research from the Future Ecosystems for Africa program at the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa, has created the most accurate maps yet of where reforestation can effectively combat climate change.
Environment
Jun 17, 2025
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36
Researchers released a analysis in the journal Climate Policy today arguing that the urgent work of removing excess carbon from the atmosphere—known as carbon dioxide removal (CDR)—can't just rely on complex, untested techniques ...
Environment
Jun 11, 2025
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23
Replanting forests can help cool the planet even more than some scientists once believed, especially in the tropics. But even if every tree lost since the mid-19th century is replanted, the total effect won't cancel out human-generated ...
Earth Sciences
May 29, 2025
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88
To reach the goals of the Paris Agreement, we not only have to reduce CO2 emissions, but also remove CO₂ from the atmosphere (carbon dioxide removal, CDR) on a large scale. This can involve both land- and ocean-based methods.
Earth Sciences
May 21, 2025
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23
The link between proximity to greenspace—including trees and parks—and healthy birth outcomes is well established. Now new data from researchers at Drexel University's Dornsife School of Public Health adds to our understanding ...
Environment
Apr 23, 2025
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157
Expansive tree canopies are crucial for healthy ecosystems and livable cities. Yet, Los Angeles' strict tree planting rules, originally meant to protect infrastructure and public safety, are now widening shade disparities, ...
Environment
Mar 26, 2025
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25
