In a groundbreaking study published in Science, NYBG scientist Dr. Evelyn Beaury and her colleagues have identified reforestation as the most effective plant-based climate mitigation strategy for preserving wildlife biodiversity. The study, the first of its kind, quantitatively assesses the global impacts of three large-scale strategies: reforestation, afforestation, and bioenergy cropping.
Key Findings include restoring forests in areas where they have historically existed offers a “win-win” by creating habitats and reducing climate change impacts. Species like jaguars, red-bellied woodpeckers, and spotted salamanders benefit both locally and globally.
Converting grasslands and savannahs or planting monocultures for bioenergy have also be found to harm biodiversity by reducing critical habitats. Iconic species such as lions, ostriches, and grouse are particularly vulnerable to these changes.
The team, which includes scientists from Princeton University and The Nature Conservancy, modeled the impact of these strategies on over 14,000 vertebrate species, demonstrating that biodiversity outcomes vary widely depending on the chosen approach and location.
Dr. Beaury, an Assistant Curator in NYBG’s Center for Conservation and Restoration Ecology, emphasized the importance of integrating biodiversity considerations into climate mitigation policies. She stated, “Our research shows that we cannot assume all plant-based solutions equally address biodiversity crises.”
With many countries incorporating land-based strategies into their net-zero emissions plans, the findings provide critical insights for policymakers. The study highlights the dual benefits of reforestation while cautioning against potential habitat loss from other strategies.
The New York Botanical Garden has been a leader in plant science and conservation since 1891. Its Center for Conservation and Restoration Ecology works globally to advance sustainable forest management and biodiversity conservation, ensuring a green future for generations to come.
