Reforestation versus Afforestation
Definition
Reforestation versus Afforestation clarifies the difference between two related Climate Change and Biodiversity Loss mitigation actions. Reforestation and afforestation are two of the most effective nature-based solutions in fighting climate change and limiting its impacts. [1]
Reforestation is the process of replanting trees in areas that had recent tree cover but where forests were lost, due to wildfires, drought, disease, or human activity such as agricultural clearing.
Afforestation is the process of planting trees in areas that have not been forested in recent history. Afforestation helps restore abandoned and degraded agricultural lands, prevent desertification, create carbon sinks, and generate new economic opportunities for local communities.
