A region has been created in the USA that is not affected by global warming. The main reason for this anomaly, as shown by new data to workIt consists of extensive reforestation of much of the eastern United States.
Since the beginning of early colonial U.S. history, there has been an increase in deforestation and clearing of forested areas for agriculture and housing, but this began to change in the 1920s as more people began to move to cities. Meanwhile, the U.S. government has embarked on an aggressive tree planting program that has resulted in the restoration of nearly 15 million acres of forest in the eastern United States over the past century.
Restoration of eastern U.S. forests has mitigated global warming through tree transpiration, which draws water from roots into leaves and then releases it into the air as vapor, slightly cooling the surrounding area.
Examining data from satellites and weather stations in the eastern United States from 1900 to 2000, scientists found that these cooling effects of reforested areas were large-scale, with most of the impact occurring within 400 meters of trees.
Previous scientists statedElephants, deer, and other large herbivores have proven critical to conservation.