The rise in global temperatures is making the growing season of trees longer. While the temperature is acting as a beneficiary for the spurt of trees, this is coming at a larger cost.

While the trees in size are growing, the strength is decreasing, making the trees longer but eventually weaker. This is having a negative impact on the development of trees, as per a recent study conducted by the Technical University of Munich in Germany.

How is growth in trees determined?

The growth in trees is mostly determined by the level of biomass in it. Higher the production of biomass production, higher the carbon storage capacity and that would eventually lead to more wood available for our different needs.

Also read: Study finds trees native to India effective in reducing air pollution

What is causing growth in trees?

In the temperate regions of North America and Europe, over the last few years,  trees have shown a faster growth rate, up to 77 per cent higher than in the previous century. The extended cold season is expanding the growing season of trees in this region. While the number of trees has increased, the decline in the quality of wood is playing a vital role in development of trees, and forests.

Why are trees becoming weak?

While, on paper it might sound like a positive thing, with a rise in the growth of trees, this is not helping in the quality of trees in these regions. According to studies the longer growing seasons contribute to weakening the wood, making trees structurally weaker. The poor quality of wood means that trunks break more easily.

What is the development of trees?

As per the study of Technical University of Munich in Germany, the average temperature of the globe has exceeded the pre-industrial era. It also suggests that warmer temperatures could lengthen the growing season of trees and consequently increase their growth rate.

But the sole tool against climate change won’t be just the growth of trees. It has to be accompanied by the various climate corrective actions taken by nations at a global level.

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