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Biomass Satellite Reveals Hidden Deforestation Scars Worldwide

6/26/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The European Space Agency's Biomass satellite has made waves by capturing stunning first images of Earth's forests, revealing even the hidden scars of deforestation in Bolivia. With its advanced P-band radar, it dives beneath tree canopies to assess biomass and carbon storage, paving the way for deeper insights into forest dynamics and their crucial role in the global carbon cycle.

History

Historical Context

In 2009, the United Nations launched the REDD+ program to combat deforestation and reduce carbon emissions from forest loss by 50% by 2030, involving countries like Bolivia. The European Space Agency's Biomass satellite, set to launch in 2025, will provide crucial data on forest biomass, enhancing global climate policies and supporting international environmental agreements.

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Story summary

The European Space Agency's Biomass satellite has made waves by capturing stunning first images of Earth's forests, revealing even the hidden scars of deforestation in Bolivia. With its advanced P-band radar, it dives beneath tree canopies to assess biomass and carbon storage, paving the way for deeper insights into forest dynamics and their crucial role in the global carbon cycle.

1 / 2