Earth ID: 12226

Earth Is Getting Greener

Story by Samson K. Reiny Released on April 26, 2016

Scientists have found that a quarter to half of Earth’s vegetated lands has shown significant greening over the last 35 years largely due to rising levels of atmospheric carbon dioxide. The findings are based on computer models and data collected by NASA and NOAA satellites. The greening represents an increase in leaves on plants and trees equivalent in area to two times the continental United States. Green leaves use sunlight, water and carbon dioxide to grow. While rising carbon dioxide concentrations in the air can be beneficial for plants, it is also the chief culprit of climate change. The gas, which traps heat in Earth’s atmosphere, has been increasing since the industrial age and is continuing to reach concentrations not seen in at least 500,000 years. What's more, researchers say the favorable impacts of carbon dioxide on plants may be limited. Studies have shown that plants adjust to increasing concentrations of carbon dioxide and the powerful boost given to vegetation growth decreases over time. Watch the video to learn more.

Source Material

For More Information

NASA.gov

Story Credits

Producers:
Kayvon Sharghi (USRA)
Sophia Roberts (USRA)

Scientist:
Ranga Myneni (Boston University)

Lead Writer:
Samson K. Reiny (Wyle Information Systems)

Please give credit for this item to:
NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center
Map courtesy of Boston University/R. Myneni

Short URL to share this page:
https://svs.gsfc.nasa.gov/12226

Keywords:
SVS >> App
NASA Science >> Earth