Micro forests: an emerging climate hero?

Micro-forests, small, human-designed forests in urban environments, are explored as a tool for cooling cities and increasing climate resilience. Rachel Carlson visits a micro-forest in Los Angeles and speaks with Damien Ouellette, a biologist, and Catherine Pokraduni, a horticulturist, who have been studying the forest for two years. These micro-forests simulate natural forests with dense layers of local plant species, promoting biodiversity and faster growth compared to traditional forests. Researchers use methods such as GPS mapping, drones, and even spiderwebs to track animal species and plant health, finding a significantly higher number of species compared to control plots. The micro-forest in LA sequesters one metric ton of carbon per year and is expected to increase to over 50 metric tons in two decades, also contributing to weed reduction and community engagement.