Environmental Advocate's Change of Heart: From Urging Tree Planting to Begging for a Halt

Ecologist Thomas Crowther, who sparked a global tree-planting craze in 2019, is now urging environmental leaders to halt mass tree planting. Crowther highlighted the drawbacks of tree planting, including stifling biodiversity and its ineffectiveness as a carbon capture solution. He warned that tree planting is often used as an excuse to avoid cutting emissions. Crowther believes the focus should shift to preserving existing forests, as they can offset around 50% more carbon in the long run. He also called for proper distribution of wealth to Indigenous populations, farmers, and communities living with biodiversity.