Exploring New Tree Cover Gain and Net Change
Provided by: Global Forest Watch|Published on: March 30, 2025|Last updated: September 26, 2026
Grades: 9, 10, 11, 12, AP
Type: Data, Graphs, and Maps
Subjects: Biology, Earth and Space Sciences, Geography
Authors: Mikaela Weisse, Peter Potapov, Liz Goldman, Sarah Carter, Katie Reytar
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Learn about our review process →
Synopsis
- This article from Global Forest Watch introduces students to interactive graphs, pie charts, tables and maps showing the changes in tree cover height and tree cover area over time.
- Students will learn how to use the tools provided to research different information, read about why the data is important, and see the connections to climate change solutions and restoration efforts.
- The article also describes the importance of using the new Lidar laser sensor to get more accurate measurements of tree canopy cover and height data.
Teaching Materials
Positives
- The maps have many useful features, including the capability to analyze and explain data within a selected boundary.
- Students can also create a dashboard that compiles their data of interest in one convenient location.
Prerequisites
- To see the maps being referenced, users may have to close out a pop-up that covers the map.
- Teachers will need to demonstrate how to use the tools, layers, and menus provided in the maps for students.
Differentiation & Implementation
- Teachers can give each student a location to explore using the provided maps. Students can report back with information about changes in the region's tree height and tree cover.
- Students can discuss the importance of trees and reforestation in combatting climate change. Teachers can explain the carbon sequestration capabilities of trees and why this is important. Teachers can combine this resource with the Trees, Forests, and Climate Change lesson plan.
- Students can use the data from the maps as inspiration for creating data artwork. Students can look to the artist Jill Pelto for an example.
This resource is designed for users to explore tree cover data, including how it has changed between 2000 and 2020. The methods of measurement and the reasoning behind the methods are well explained. Descriptions of each data set are also well-documented. Tree cover and how it has changed is one way students can learn about how humans can impact the climate and the environment, both negatively and positively. The information presented is accurate, and this resource is recommended for teaching.
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
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