The role of trees in the carbon cycle is well established. In 2005, the UN FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) estimated that global forests contain 638 gigatonnes of carbon -- that's 638 with nine zeros -- more than resides in the entire atmosphere!
Woods and forests thus act as significant carbon stores, and this has prompted the suggestion that by avoiding cutting forests down, and by replanting those that already have been lost, trees can make a major contribution to efforts to reduce the amount of atmospheric CO2.
Scientists have debated the merits of tree planting as a means of drawing CO2 out of the atmosphere and as might be expected the picture is not a simple one. Factors such as geography, soil type and tree species all impact on the effectiveness of trees in locking up carbon, as do some larger scale processes, such as the annual period of snow cover.
Although many if not all of these factors do play a part at the global scale, it must be remembered that the Woodland Trust is a UK-based organization. This means that any carbon benefits from woodland creation need to be examined in a UK context.
Computer models of climate change predict increased growth for much of the UK's vegetation over coming decades, although some parts of the South are likely to experience increased periods of drought. This will lead to changes in species compositions, increased risk of natural hazards such as fire and insect outbreaks, and greater exposure to extreme weather events.
However, the best way to adapt to these challenging conditions is by making preparations sooner rather than later. Healthy woodlands can deliver a wide range of benefits, such as protection from wind damage, flooding and soil erosion, shelter and shading for livestock and people, and link habitats together to help wildlife move through the landscape.
This is why tree planting is an essential part of the UK's climate change adaptation plans. Trees do indeed store large amounts of carbon, but they do a lot more than just that.
Woodland created through Woodland Carbon is carefully monitored, from the initial planning and planting stages, to subsequent care of the growing woodland. Our management principles ensure the woods provide maximum benefits to wildlife, and a natural place for people to enjoy.
Return to carbon FAQ index