Should the reforestation of degraded land focus on fast-growing tree species (e.g. industrial plantations) or on the restoration of diverse, natural forest ecosystems?
Dear Researchers, Scientists, Friends,
The question is about the choice between short-term environmental gain (CO₂ absorption by fast-growing trees) and long-term restoration of biodiversity through the creation of natural ecosystems. According to the accepted research hypothesis, diverse forest ecosystems offer greater ecological benefits in the long term, but fast-growing plantations can be an effective tool in the short term for reducing CO₂. Industrial plantations of fast-growing trees (e.g. eucalyptus or pine) are often used as a way to quickly absorb CO₂. However, their value for the restoration of biodiversity and ecosystem stability is limited. Natural forests offer more ecosystem benefits, such as improved water retention, soil protection and the restoration of wildlife populations, but they take much longer to regenerate. The decision on which afforestation strategy to choose requires consideration of local environmental conditions and short- and long-term objectives.
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And what is your opinion on this matter?
What is your opinion on this issue?
Please reply with justification,
I invite everyone to the discussion,
Thank you very much,
Best wishes,
I invite you to scientific cooperation,
Dariusz Prokopowicz
Indigenous tree species should be planted. In my experience the fast growing alien species, like acacias and eucalyptus, have caused irreparable damage to local plant ecosystem in Bangladesh.
I think the choice of fast-growing species or natural species depends on the purpose of restoring the land. If the purpose is land reclamation, fast-growing species can be used so that the soil is covered quickly and erosion can be reduced immediately. Meanwhile, if the goal is forest restoration, to restore the condition of the ecosystem and biodiversity before the damage occurred, then natural species should be used, which are generally slow-growing species.
It depends on the geographic environment of a country. My experience is related to Bangladesh where the introduction of fast growing alien trees (mainly acacias and eucalyptus) have caused enormous damage to local ecosystem. The leaves of these trees do not decompose easily, nor do they add to food for the local livestocks, their fruits is of no use to birds, hence they do not make nests on them.
Bangladesh has banned planting these trees ...
Following the Forestiers interests, if there is somewhere (on the certain habitat) no good enough solutions with indigenous dendrospecies, you have to take account of some allochthonous plants.
Dear Researchers, Scientists, Friends,
The question, "Should the afforestation of degraded lands focus on fast-growing tree species or on the restoration of diverse, natural forest ecosystems?" remains, in my opinion, highly relevant and significant, and the discussion around it should be continued, as should research aimed at its fuller clarification. Based on my observations and research to date, the dilemma between the short-term effectiveness in carbon dioxide sequestration and the long-term building of resilient and biodiverse forest ecosystems is still unresolved and is taking on new significance in the context of advancing climate change. The relevance of this question is underscored, for example, by the need to consider dynamically changing environmental conditions and the latest discoveries regarding the role of biodiversity in the stability of ecosystems and their ability to adapt. In the future, I believe it will be crucial to investigate the synergies between these two approaches – perhaps optimal afforestation strategies will combine elements of fast-growing pioneer species with the long-term introduction of native species, creating mosaic forest structures. The determinants shaping these decisions are undoubtedly local soil and climatic conditions, the availability of water resources, pressure from invasive species, as well as the social and economic goals associated with a given area. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all researchers and scientists for their past contributions to this important discussion. Personally, I am open to any scientific collaboration in this fascinating and extremely important issue. I encourage further, in-depth exchange of ideas and research results, so that together we can find the most effective and sustainable strategies for afforesting degraded lands.
I invite you to discuss this issue and to engage in scientific cooperation,
Best wishes,
Dariusz Prokopowicz
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