Ecologist Thomas Crowther, formerly of the United Nations’ Trillion Trees Campaign, used to advocate for mass tree plantations as a solution to climate change. However, he has now changed his tune, arguing that these plantations are not as effective or beneficial as they are often portrayed. Crowther’s previous study, which suggested that the Earth had room for 1.2 trillion additional trees, sparked a tree-planting trend, but was later criticized by scientists for overestimating the benefits of tree restoration. Crowther now emphasizes the importance of preserving existing forests and distributing wealth to Indigenous communities and farmers. The effectiveness of restoration efforts and the risk of greenwashing must be carefully considered.
https://www.wired.com/story/stop-planting-trees-thomas-crowther/