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From an AI question: Is the planet greener at the moment with CO2 helping it?
Yes, the planet is greener in many areas, and increased atmospheric CO2 is a contributing factor, though the picture is complex. Here's a concise breakdown:
Yes, the planet is greener in many areas, and increased atmospheric CO2 is a contributing factor, though the picture is complex. Here's a concise breakdown:
- Global Greening Trend: Satellite data, including NASA's MODIS and studies from Boston University (1982–2015), show a significant increase in global vegetation cover, with up to 50% of the Earth's vegetated areas becoming greener. This is often called the "greening effect." For example, leaf area index (LAI) data indicates a 5–10% increase in global foliage since the 1980s, particularly in regions like China, India, and parts of Europe.
- CO2's Role: Higher CO2 levels enhance photosynthesis through the "CO2 fertilization effect," allowing plants to grow faster and use water more efficiently. Studies estimate that 70% of the greening since the 1980s is attributable to CO2, with additional contributions from nitrogen deposition (9%), climate change (8%), and land use changes (4%), like reforestation in China.
- Regional Variations: Greening is prominent in forests, croplands, and savannas, especially in India and China due to intensive agriculture and afforestation. However, some areas, like parts of the Amazon and Congo, show browning (vegetation loss) due to deforestation, drought, or fires.
- Caveats: Greening doesn't mean universal ecological health. It can mask issues like biodiversity loss, soil degradation, or forest quality decline. CO2-driven growth may also plateau as plants reach nutrient or water limits. Additionally, climate change linked to CO2 (e.g., heatwaves, extreme weather) can counteract greening in some regions.
- Recent Data: A 2024 study in Nature Climate Change and posts on X (e.g., from climate researchers) confirm ongoing greening, with global leaf area continuing to rise through 2023. However, no specific 2025 data is available to confirm the trend's status this year.