Nature 1 min read

The lungs of trees: forests and photosynthesis

The importance of photosynthesis and the carbon cycle

The lungs of trees: forests and photosynthesis

Forests cover approximately 31% of the Earth's surface and act as gigantic oxygen factories. During photosynthesis, trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, regulating climate and air quality. It is estimated that the Amazon alone produces 20% of the planet's oxygen, although its real role is more complex due to respiration and decomposition cycles. In addition, forests store large amounts of carbon in their biomass and soils, playing a crucial role in climate change mitigation. However, accelerated deforestation is reducing this capacity, putting global climate stability at risk. The oldest forest species, such as ancient redwoods, show how trees can live thousands of years, storing carbon over the long term and maintaining essential biological corridors.

Source: World Wildlife Fund

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