This study assesses the global potential for natural forest regeneration in deforested tropical regions. Using data from 2000 to 2016, a model was developed to predict the potential for natural regeneration across tropical forested countries and biomes at a 30-meter resolution. The study estimates that 215 million hectares have potential for natural forest regeneration, representing a significant carbon sequestration potential. Five countries (Brazil, Indonesia, China, Mexico, and Colombia) account for 52% of this potential, highlighting the need for targeted restoration initiatives.

Brooke A. Williams, Hawthorne L. Beyer, Matthew E. Fagan, Robin L. Chazdon, Marina Schmoeller, Starry Sprenkle-Hyppolite, Bronson W. Griscom, James E. M. Watson, Anazélia M. Tedesco, Mariano Gonzalez-Roglich, Gabriel A. Daldegan, Blaise Bodin, Danielle Celentano, Sarah Jane Wilson, Jonathan R. Rhodes, Nikola S. Alexandre, Do-Hyung Kim, Diego Bastos, Renato Crouzeilles