Research progress on low function forests and restoration technologies

Existing forest stands in China generally face multiple challenges, including monotonous structure, degraded ecological functions, declining biomass and carbon sequestration capacity, frequent pest infestations, and reduced comprehensive benefits, which severely constrain the construction of national ecological security barriers and the achievement of “dual carbon” strategic goals. Therefore, low function forest restoration has become a key measure to promote high-quality development and multifunctional synergistic improvement of forest ecosystems. This paper systematically reviews the technological research progress in low function forest restoration in China. Based on an in-depth analysis of the classification, causal mechanisms, and spatial distribution differences of low function forests, it constructs a technical pathway centered on “regeneration and rejuvenation, structural optimization, and functional enhancement”. Additionally, it provides a critical review of current applications of emerging technologies such as remote sensing monitoring, artificial intelligence, big data, virtual simulation, and digital twins across the entire restoration chain. Furthermore, a comprehensive evaluation system for restoration effectiveness was established from multiple dimensions, including ecological benefits, carbon sequestration increments and socio-economic value. The research findings aim to provide theoretical support for enhancing the multifunctionality of China^,s forest ecosystems, maintaining system resilience and stability, and offer important references for serving national ecological security and green, low-carbon development strategies.