Forests: 4 studies revealing their impact on environmental health.

The forests, silent guardians of our planet, reveal new secrets thanks to the synergy between the wisdom of nature and the ingenuity of artificial intelligence.

In collaboration with the Global Forest Biodiversity Initiative (GFBI), over 150 scientists have shed light on the ecology of forests, highlighting the crucial importance of their protection.

Resilient forests: defenses against invasive non-native plants

The first study, published in Nature, unveils the secrets of how forests defend their biodiversity.

The scientists, using artificial intelligence, have identified the factors influencing invasions of non-native plants.

The phylogenetic and functional diversity of native tree communities plays a key role in limiting such invasions, demonstrating that forest health reduces the impact of invasive species.

Global carbon: forests as climate saviors

The second study, "Integrated global assessment of the natural forest carbon potential," explores the potential of forests in mitigating climate change.

By comparing field data and satellite imagery, scientists have discovered that global forest carbon is below its natural potential. What does this mean? That forests do not absorb all the carbon they could.

Sustainable management and protection of forests can significantly contribute to global efforts to tackle the climate crisis.

Leaves that tell stories: global variations in forests

In the third study, published in Nature Plants, the focus shifts to tree leaves and their role in ecosystems.

Through detailed analysis supported by artificial intelligence, scientists have identified the factors that influence global variation in tree leaf type.

This in-depth understanding paves the way for more accurate predictions about the future functioning of forest ecosystems.

Artificial Intelligence as a conservation ally

Professor Roberto Cazzolla Gatti, co-author of the studies, emphasizes the importance of artificial intelligence in accelerating scientific discoveries.

His vision embraces the use of AI in the One Health research group, combining forces to heal and preserve the health of our planet in a rapidly evolving world.

In this fascinating blend of nature and technology, forests reveal themselves not only as guardians of biodiversity but also as valuable allies in the fight against climate change.

Matteo Castioni