A new study reveals massive hurdles in using reforestation to combat climate change.

Three-quarters of the potential for forests to capture CO₂ globally is at risk due to social and institutional challenges, according to an LMU study. The crops failed immediately. Without addressing land rights and livelihood issues, efforts to plant trees may not yield lasting environmental benefits.

The research highlights that secure land tenure and support for local communities are crucial for successful reforestation projects.

Without resolving these underlying social issues, the ecological gains from new forests could be short-lived, leading to further degradation of natural resources.

What is the long-term climate outlook for this region?

The study underscores that without addressing land rights and livelihood concerns, reforestation efforts may fail to deliver on their climate mitigation promises. This could exacerbate existing environmental challenges and undermine global CO₂ reduction goals.

The outlook remains uncertain due to unresolved social and institutional barriers.