Afforestation is the process of planting trees in areas that have not been forested for a long time. This practice helps to create new forests, which can improve biodiversity, enhance air quality, and combat climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. By establishing new forests, afforestation can also provide habitats for wildlife and prevent soil erosion. It is different from reforestation, which involves replanting trees in areas that were previously forested but have been cleared or damaged. Overall, afforestation plays a crucial role in environmental conservation and sustainability.