Nitrogen-Rich Soil Doubles Tropical Forest Regrowth, Study Finds

Tropical forests can recover twice as fast after deforestation if their soils contain sufficient nitrogen, according to a new study published by the University of Leeds. The research, which tracked forest regrowth across Central America for decades, revealed the critical role of nitrogen in accelerating the return of trees and boosting carbon capture from the atmosphere.

The study demonstrated that soil nutrients play a decisive role in natural reforestation. Researchers observed that nitrogen-rich soil significantly increased the regrowth rate of tropical forests after deforestation, leading to a substantial increase in carbon capture, according to Science Daily.

The findings suggest that nature-based reforestation strategies, which focus on enhancing soil health, could be more effective than relying on fertilizers. The research points to smarter reforestation strategies that work with nature.

The study highlights the potential for optimizing soil conditions to enhance forest recovery and combat climate change. By understanding the role of nitrogen in forest regrowth, scientists can develop more effective strategies for restoring degraded landscapes and mitigating the impacts of deforestation.