In 2015, trees covered just 1.9% of these Ethiopian drylands; nine years later...

Evaluating the impact of assisted natural regeneration and afforestation on soil erosion dynamics using high-resolution imagery in semi-arid Ethiopia In 2015, trees covered just 1.9% of these Ethiopian drylands; nine years later, helping old roots regrow pushed forest cover above 22%.A comprehensive study evaluating land restoration in the Kembata Tembaro district of central Ethiopia shows that protecting wild growth and planting new trees have significantly reduced severe topsoil loss across dry, hilly areas.The research was published in the scientific journal Scientific Reports by lead author Melese Wondatir Sisay. The investigation evaluated the real-world impact of the REDD+ Investment Program, an environmental initiative launched in 2015 with funding support from the Norwegian government. By examining high-detail satellite images provided by Norway’s International Climate and Forests Initiative alongside ground height maps and historical rainfall records, the research team mapped land changes and soil movement between 2015 and 2024 across six pilot test sites covering over 107 square kilometres.Three test sites were restored using assisted natural regeneration, a management st...