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Climate change is accelerating. Forest research and ocean health conferences stress the need for immediate climate action.
Can Planting Trees Cool the Planet?
A recent study in Communications Earth & Environment looked at what would happen if we restored Earth’s forests to how they were before the industrial era.
That means planting trees over about 4.6 million square miles of land.
The researchers found that doing this could cool the planet by about 0.34°C. The cooling happens in part because trees release natural chemicals (BVOCs) that help lower temperatures.
But the scientists also said this isn’t enough. Reforestation helps, but it won’t undo the warming already caused by greenhouse gas emissions. Lead author Bob Allen said we still need to cut those emissions in a big way.[1]
Protecting the Oceans: A Global Gathering
On World Oceans Day, thousands of people from around the world came to Nice, France, for the United Nations Ocean Conference. The event began with a parade of research ships sailing into the Bay of Angels.
The goal of the meeting is to protect our oceans. Oceans are under threat from rising temperatures, plastic waste, and overfishing.
A big focus this year is the 2023 High Seas Treaty. If enough countries sign it, the treaty could create protected zones in the open ocean, areas beyond any one country’s control.[2]
Prince William Speaks Up for the Sea
Prince William made headlines at the Blue Economy and Finance Forum in Monaco. Speaking to world leaders, he urged them to take urgent action to protect marine life.
He reminded the audience that oceans cover 70% of Earth, provide half the oxygen we breathe, and support more than 3 billion people. Yet, only 3% of ocean waters are protected today.
His speech ties in with his Earthshot Prize work, which rewards practical solutions to environmental problems.[3]
Europe Debates Climate Targets
In Europe, scientists are urging leaders not to back down on climate goals.
The EU’s climate advisory board says the bloc should stick to its plan to cut emissions by 90% by 2040 (compared to 1990 levels).
Some EU governments want to weaken the plan or use carbon credits from other countries to meet their goals. But experts say this could slow down investments in clean energy and new technologies at home.[4]
May Brings a Slight Cooling
There’s a bit of good news. May 2025 was slightly cooler than the past few months.
The global average temperature was 1.393°C above pre-industrial levels.
That’s still high, but it’s the first time since June 2023 that we’ve stayed below 1.4°C.[5]
Footnotes
- Reforestation's Limited Cooling Effect: Washington Post
- UN Ocean Conference Commences in Nice: AP News
- Prince William Advocates for Ocean Protection: People
- EU Advised Against Weakening Climate Targets: Reuters
- May 2025 Global Temperature Anomaly Recorded: Climate and Economy
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