Amazon rainforest trees growing larger as CO2 levels rise | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentNext articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload ourSocial PartnerWe are 8 logo (opens in a new tab)AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleTom WatlingSaturday 27 September 2025 01:00 BSTWhat if We Lost The Amazon Rainforest?A major new study has found that trees across the Amazon rainforest are growing larger due to rising levels of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.The research, published in Nature Plants, indicates that the average size of trees in the Amazon has increased by 3.2 percent every decade for at least the past 30 years.Scientists attribute this trend to the fertilizing effect of higher CO2 concentrations, which can stimulate plant growth.The findings, from the RAINFOR network, highlight the crucial role of tropical rainforests in absorbing CO2 and mitigating man-made climate change.Researchers warn that while CO2 may boost tree growth, these benefits should not obscure the devastating impact of deforestation, as large, old trees are irreplaceable.In fullAmazon rainforest trees are getting bigger due to climate crisis, study findsThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in