Trees may store less planet-heating carbon than hoped, study suggests (opens original article in a new tab)

A study suggests trees may store less carbon than expected as photosynthesis does not always lead to wood growth, with research showing significant carbon uptake after growth stops in some regions.

• Trees may not store as much carbon as previously thought due to a disconnect between photosynthesis and wood growth
• Research found that 36% of carbon uptake in eastern US sites occurred after tree growth stopped
• Forests' ability to act as carbon sinks could be overestimated by current models
• Rising temperatures and droughts reduce wood growth despite ongoing photosynthesis