Extra CO2 boosted Wisconsin forest productivity 39%, but ozone cut the gain

 A Wisconsin experiment studied forest communities exposed to high carbon dioxide and ozone. Elevated carbon dioxide significantly increased forest productivity and carbon storage over eleven years. Conversely, increased ozone levels reduced forest productivity and ecosystem carbon content. The combined effects showed carbon dioxide stimulating growth and ozone limiting it. These findings highlight forests’ complex responses to atmospheric changes. A Wisconsin experiment studied forest communities exposed to high carbon dioxide and ozone. Elevated carbon dioxide significantly increased forest productivity and carbon storage over eleven years. Conversely, increased ozone levels reduced forest productivity and ecosystem carbon content. The combined effects showed carbon dioxide stimulating growth and ozone limiting it. These findings highlight forests’ complex responses to atmospheric changes.