Biophysical effects of croplands on land surface temperature

Chi Chen (), Yang Li, Xuhui Wang, Xiangzhong Luo, Yue Li, Yu Cheng and Zhe Zhu
Additional contact information
Chi Chen: Rutgers University
Yang Li: National University of Singapore
Xuhui Wang: Peking University
Xiangzhong Luo: National University of Singapore
Yue Li: University of California
Yu Cheng: Harvard University
Zhe Zhu: University of Connecticut

Nature Communications, 2024, vol. 15, issue 1, 1-10

Abstract: Abstract Converting natural vegetation to croplands alters the local land surface energy budget. Here, we use two decades of satellite data and a physics-based framework to analyse the biophysical mechanisms by which croplands influence daily mean land surface temperature (LST). Globally, 60% of croplands exhibit an annual warming effect, while 40% have a cooling effect compared to their surrounding natural ecosystems. Aerodynamic resistance is identified as the dominant biophysical factor impacting LST by adjusting latent heat flux. The magnitude of cropland-induced LST change is negatively correlated with the difference in leaf area index between croplands and their surrounding biome types. The strongest warming occurs in temperate dry regions where croplands are surrounded by savannas. However, a lower-than-expected LST disturbance is seen in hot and wet regions where croplands are surrounded by rainforests, attributed to lower cropland fraction and energy limitations. These findings highlight the complex interplay of land use, vegetation, and regional climate, providing valuable insights into sustainable agriculture and land-based climate change mitigation.

Date: 2024
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DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-55319-2

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