Reforesting

Reforesting is the process of restoring forest cover on land where forests have been reduced, damaged, or lost. It encompasses planting trees, seeding, or fostering natural regeneration, and may target land previously forested as well as degraded sites awaiting forest recovery. The term is often used interchangeably with reforestation, though some sources distinguish reforestation as recovery on previously forested land and afforestation as establishing forest on land not recently forested.

Methods include active planting of seedlings or direct seeding, as well as passive approaches that remove barriers to natural regeneration. Effective reforesting generally emphasizes native or locally adapted species, diverse mixes, and succession planning. Site preparation, weed and pest control, and protection from grazing or fire are common management steps. Projects may aim for single-species plantations, mixed-species forests, or biodiverse restoration that restores ecological structure and function.

Benefits of reforesting include increases in biodiversity, improved soil stability and water regulation, enhanced carbon sequestration, and gains for rural livelihoods and climate resilience. Urban reforestation creates canopy cover and urban cooling, while landscape-scale efforts can restore habitat connectivity and ecosystem services.

Challenges include securing land tenure, long-term financing, maintenance, climate suitability, and the risk of non-native species or monocultures reducing resilience. Successful reforesting also requires monitoring, adaptive management, and alignment with local communities.

Global initiatives, such as the Bonn Challenge and the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration, promote large-scale reforestation and forest restoration efforts, reflecting recognition of forests as critical for climate mitigation and biodiversity.