Summarised by Centrist
Despite fears of more land becoming deserts, increasing CO2 levels are causing many of the world’s drylands to turn green.
“It’s not stopping climate change by any means, but it is helping us slow it down,” said carbon-cycle researcher Trevor Keenan.
Despite predictions of desertification due to climate change, rising CO2 levels are causing many of the world’s drylands to turn green, according to a recent study.
Regions from Southeast Australia to the Sahel in Africa are experiencing increased vegetation despite higher temperatures and prolonged droughts. This greening is attributed to the CO2 fertilisation effect, which enhances photosynthesis and allows plants to use water more efficiently.
Research indicates that while the greening effect may help moderate CO2 levels in the atmosphere, it is not a comprehensive solution to climate change.
Moreover, the increased vegetation in some arid regions has been linked to heightened risks of wildfires, as seen in recent bushfires in Southeast Australia.
