We can’t plant our way to cutting CO2 emissions

The simple ways coming from the simple minds we have developed into. Instead of remembering what we once were and led by doing. Innovations from the past practices into the new, cleaner, needs are what are needed. Do we need to convert damaged land back to natural, yes, but that won't take care of the damage we did and continue to do! This isn't just about climate change it's also about continued forward movement, getting back to what we were leaders in, and respect for the planet we exist on.

To curb global warming would require converting huge swaths of farmland

February 8, 2011 - Two years ago the state of Minnesota was contemplating an ambitious plan to convert a million acres of farmland back to forest as a key part of its battle against climate change.

After all, as every kid knows, planting a tree is one of the best ways to reduce carbon dioxide in the air.

Turns out it's not that easy.

Researchers found that Minnesota would have to convert vast swaths of productive farmland to make a real dent in its contribution to global warming, and the state's reforestation plan has quietly faded away. The state's latest greenhouse strategy update, submitted to the Legislature in January, focuses almost exclusively on energy efficiency and alternative fuels, with almost no mention of natural conservation.

"It's at best a small part of a large strategy that we need to offset greenhouse gas emissions," said Peter Reich, a University of Minnesota professor who studies ecology and climate change. "And it's not one that is economically cheap." {continued}