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 January 15, 2026, by researchers at the University of Leeds. The research, which tracked forest regrowth in Central America for decades, revealed the critical role of soil nutrients in natural reforestation and its impact on carbon capture.
The study demonstrated that nitrogen plays a decisive role in how quickly trees return after deforestation. Faster regrowth also translates to increased carbon capture from the atmosphere, offering a nature-based strategy for combating climate change, according to Science Daily.
Researchers followed forest plots in Central America for decades, observing the impact of varying soil compositions on regrowth rates. The findings suggest that reforestation strategies should focus on working with natural soil conditions rather than relying solely on fertilizers, according to the University of Leeds.
The research highlights the potential for "smarter reforestation strategies" that leverage the natural properties of soil to accelerate forest recovery and enhance carbon sequestration, as reported by Science Daily. The study points to a hidden nutrient in the soil that could help tropical forests bounce back twice as fast and store far more carbon.
The findings suggest a shift towards more effective, nature-based strategies for combating climate change by optimizing soil conditions for reforestation.
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