In the ongoing battle against climate change, the choice between planting a verdant forest and constructing fields of dark-colored solar panels has long perplexed decision-makers. A recent study led by Dr. Rafael Stern, Dr. Jonathan Muller, and Dr. Eyal Rotenberg from the Weizmann Institute of Science sheds light on this dilemma, providing insights into the most effective use of land in terms of addressing the climate crisis.

The study, published in PNAS Nexus, compared the impact of a natural forest and a solar panel field in arid areas, known for abundant sunlight. Both the "green" and "solar" forests exhibited similar albedo effects, absorbing sunlight and heating up. However, their carbon emission mitigation capacities differed significantly.

Surprisingly, the solar forest emerged as the more effective solution. The researchers calculated equilibrium points, considering the opposing effects of heating from dark surfaces and cooling from reduced atmospheric carbon dioxide. It was found that it takes only two and a half years for the heat emitted by solar farms to be offset by the carbon emissions averted through reduced electricity production, even factoring in panel manufacturing, transportation, and operation.

In contrast, a natural forest of comparable size would require over 100 years of photosynthesis to offset its heating effect. The study emphasized that this conclusion is particularly relevant for arid regions, where open land reserves are abundant.

However, the researchers highlighted the importance of preserving natural forests, which currently absorb close to one-third of humanity's annual carbon emissions. Forests play a crucial role in the global rain cycle, biodiversity maintenance, and various environmental and social contexts. Therefore, the study suggests a dual approach: protecting existing forests and combining afforestation efforts in humid regions with the establishment of solar farms in arid areas.

While solar farms prove more efficient in certain climates, the overarching goal remains a balanced strategy that addresses the multifaceted challenges of the climate crisis. The study reinforces the need for a comprehensive and nuanced approach to land use, combining the strengths of natural and artificial solutions in the global fight against climate change.

Prof. Dan Yakir's research is supported by the Helen Kimmel Center for Planetary Science and the Schwartz Reisman Collaborative Science Program.

Prof. Yakir is the incumbent of the Hilda and Cecil Lewis Professorial Chair.

Based on: https://www.sciencedaily.com

Source: Weizmann Institute of Science