China's Massive Reforestation Grows Faster Than Natural Forests, Study Finds

A new study of China’s large‑scale tree‑planting projects, including the “Great Green Wall,” found that artificially planted forests grow significantly faster than natural forests. Researchers analyzed satellite data on leaf‑area index and canopy density, discovering that planted forests increased leaf surface area up to 66 % faster than natural stands. Even when age and site conditions were matched, the planted trees grew about 4.6 % faster, a boost mainly attributed to younger age, the use of fast‑growing species such as eucalyptus and poplar, and intensive management that removes competing vegetation and sometimes adds fertilizer.

The accelerated growth peaks when trees are 30‑40 years old, after which the advantage declines. While planted forests can serve as a short‑term carbon‑sequestration tool, the authors warn that natural forests, though slower to grow, provide more durable long‑term carbon storage and biodiversity. Lead author Yuhang Luo from Shenzhen, China, stresses that ecosystem models need to differentiate forest types to improve climate‑mitigation assessments. The findings have implications for global reforestation strategies and carbon‑accounting policies.