Destroyed tropical forests could almost fully regrow if humans leave them alone for 20 years, study says

Tropical forests, a vital home to animal life and slowing down global warming, continue to disappear at an alarming rate. But a new study found that there is hope for already destroyed forests to almost fully regrow — if humans leave them alone. 

The study, published in the journal Science on Thursday, analyzed 77 different forest sites across the tropics that have been abandoned after deforestation. When left alone by people for 20 years, scientists found, the forests can regain an average 78% of their original growth. 

Old-growth forests — those that have remained without significant disturbance — are rich in biodiversity, as their durability and stability allow numerous plant and animal species to thrive. But because of climate change and human interaction, these unburdened forests have become rarer.