It is often said that trees are the lungs of the Earth, and rightly so. Trees have this incredible ability to separate carbon from oxygen, release oxygen into the air, and trap carbon in their branches, roots, and trunk. This carbon, known to be the primary culprit of climate change, is transformed by the tree into organic matter that serves as its food. To this day, planting trees is the only way to positively impact the climate once greenhouse gases have been emitted. Of course, the priority solution is obviously to reduce GHG emissions at the source, but planting trees and maintaining them for a long time is another step in the fight against climate change.
Deciduous or conifers?
All trees are champions of carbon sequestration, but at different levels. It is the leaves, or needles in the case of conifers, that allow for the absorption and transformation of CO2. The larger the surface area of the leaf, the more effectively it can do its job. Deciduous trees are therefore more efficient than conifers, although the latter are not far behind. Additionally, forests or green spaces that include multiple tree species are more effective than those that are less diverse. Not to mention that diversification and biodiversity help in cases of pest infestations that often target a single tree species—think of the emerald ash borer, for example.
The life cycle of a tree
It takes a few years for trees to reach maturity and be at their peak performance in terms of carbon sequestration. Young seedlings trap less carbon than their larger and more foliage-rich neighbors. The tree traps carbon throughout its active life. It is only during its decomposition or if it burns in a forest fire that the tree releases carbon into the soil and atmosphere. If we cut down the still-growing tree to make lumber for construction, it continues to sequester carbon more effectively than those that end their useful life in the wild.
Forest fires have a disastrous impact on the climate. Not only do they destroy thousands of hectares of forest, but tons of CO2 are emitted during the fire. The burned trees also release the carbon they have stored for decades. Knowing that a large portion of forest fires are caused by human activities, it is the responsibility of every forest user to do everything in their power to limit the risks.
Offsetting GHG emissions through tree planting
Obviously, the best GHGs are those we do not produce. Several concrete actions can be taken daily to reduce one's own GHG emissions. For those that cannot be eliminated at the source, there are ways to offset them. Some companies assist individuals, groups, or businesses that wish to cancel their GHG emissions by planting trees. A calculation allows one to know their carbon emissions and then see how many trees need to be planted to achieve a zero balance. Make sure to work with a recognized and transparent company so that your carbon credits are truly applied wisely.
Trees have a host of other benefits in landscaping, they provide shade, regulate temperature, serve as shelters for insects and small animals, and add life and beauty everywhere. Planting one or more trees at your home will not only improve your carbon footprint but also allow you to enjoy cleaner and fresher air.
Visit your Passion Jardins retailer to choose your tree and receive advice on planting and maintaining it.
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