A new study in Science Advances reveals that a global decline in wind speed, known as terrestrial stilling, is helping grasslands capture more carbon. Slower winds reduce water loss through evaporation, allowing plants to keep their leaves open longer for carbon dioxide absorption. This increase in water-use efficiency provides a critical buffer for grasslands facing climate-driven droughts. The research suggests these ecosystems are more resilient to warming than previously thought, offering new insights for global conservation strategies.
