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Global Tree Cover Grows, But Rainforests Face Destruction

4/18/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A University of Maryland study reveals global tree cover grew by 2.24 million square kilometers from 1982 to 2016.
Key contributors to this growth include agricultural abandonment, climate change, and extensive tree planting in China.
However, tropical rainforests are experiencing severe losses from human activities, threatening biodiversity and ecological balance.

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Story summary

A University of Maryland study reveals global tree cover grew by 2.24 million square kilometers from 1982 to 2016.
Key contributors to this growth include agricultural abandonment, climate change, and extensive tree planting in China.
However, tropical rainforests are experiencing severe losses from human activities, threatening biodiversity and ecological balance.