How does afforestation help combat climate change?

Afforestation plays a significant role in combating climate change primarily through its ability to increase carbon sequestration and enhance biodiversity. When new forests are created, trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during the process of photosynthesis, effectively removing this greenhouse gas and thereby mitigating its impact on global warming. The establishment of forests not only contributes to carbon storage but also improves local ecosystems, promotes biodiversity, and supports various wildlife habitats, ultimately leading to healthier environmental conditions.

The other options do not align with the benefits of afforestation. Deforestation would lead to increased carbon emissions, which contradicts the objectives of afforestation. Focusing solely on agricultural production neglects the broader environmental benefits of planting trees, and would not contribute to combating climate change effectively.