This study investigates the impact of tree planting on wetland dynamics in China from 2000-2016 and projects potential impacts for 2017-2035. Using satellite data and a land surface model, the researchers find that historical tree planting over wetland areas has resulted in a net wetland loss. The dry northern and western regions show higher sensitivity to wetland reduction from tree planting than the moist southern regions. Continuing tree planting scenarios are projected to lead to significant wetland loss in protected wetland reserves. The study highlights the need for spatial optimization of tree planting to balance carbon sequestration and wetland conservation.

Yi Xi, Shushi Peng, Gang Liu, Agnès Ducharne, Philippe Ciais, Catherine Prigent, Xinyu Li, Xutao Tang