Is planting trees to save the planet useful?

Global warming is increasingly at the center of public debate. Its effects are already visible, and it is a priority to find sustainable solutions to limit the damage and keep our planet habitable for all living beings.

One of the most discussed solutions in recent months concerns the possibility of planting one trillion trees to absorb the enormous amount of excess CO2 produced by human activities. Is this a feasible solution? And what can each of us do in our own small way to contribute to the cause? Let's take stock of the situation together and discover everything you need to know before choosing the tree to plant in your garden.

One trillion trees: Professor Stefano Mancuso's solution

Before becoming a resolution of the G20 in Rome, the idea of planting one trillion trees to absorb greenhouse gas emissions had already been promoted in the scientific community for years. One of the most vocal supporters of this solution is Professor Stefano Mancuso, founder of plant neurobiology, author of numerous and compelling popular science books, and a leading figure in the first edition of BotanicalDryGarden by Night.

The idea is as simple as it is revolutionary: why desperately try to develop futuristic technologies to absorb CO2 when nature already has something perfect for this purpose? Despite the giant steps taken by man over the millennia, the tree remains the most advanced technology possible: each tree is able to absorb an average of 20 kg of CO2 per year thanks to the process of photosynthesis. The presence of woods and forests is also essential to preserve biodiversity oases, providing refuge to an incredible variety of animal species.

The position of the G20 and COP26

This solution returned to the spotlight at the end of October 2021 during the G20 summit held in Rome. On the occasion of the summit, the commitment to plant one trillion trees by 2030 was officially formalized.

Other encouraging signs in this regard came during COP26, the United Nations Climate Change Conference held in Glasgow in November 2021. At this event, the world leaders established the end of deforestation by 2030. It is therefore important not only to plant new trees, but above all to protect the forest heritage that guarantees our survival and which has been savagely exploited and reduced in recent decades.

Many scientists have expressed doubts about the numbers touted by world leaders on these occasions. It has been pointed out that planting trees is useful in any case, but not a solution unless humans simultaneously adopt more sustainable lifestyles.

Planting trees remains an excellent carbon offset measure, that is, a way to compensate for greenhouse gas emissions. However, it is important to plant with criteria and foresight, always keeping in mind the best choices for the ecosystem.

Things to know before planting a tree

At this point in the conversation, it is impossible not to remember the protagonist of The Man Who Planted Trees, a splendid story by the French writer Jean Giono. Elzéard Bouffier, the shepherd who leaves his home every day with a sack full of acorns to plant to reforest a dry and bare valley, is an unforgettable figure in 20th-century literature.

Although it is a recommended read for both adults and children, we advise you to wait a moment before setting off with your sack of acorns on your shoulder. Planting a tree is always a commendable intention, whether to improve air quality, to make a small contribution to the fight against climate-altering emissions, or simply to enjoy its shade in the summers to come. However, there are some important considerations to make before planting your tree, and we are here to give you some advice on the matter.

How to choose the right tree to plant

The choice of the perfect tree for your garden will necessarily have to take into account some fundamental factors to avoid wasting time and money:

• As with any new plant to be planted, it is essential to assess the climatic characteristics of your area and the type of soil in which you will plant your tree. What are the minimum temperatures reached in winter? Does the soil have a particular pH? Are there significant slopes or elevation changes? If you have any doubts, do not hesitate to ask for advice from a trusted nursery, the local forest rangers, or a good agronomist to get certain answers.
• Take into account the height the tree will reach at full maturity. Plant it so that it has enough space to grow (both at the root level and in terms of the width of the canopy) without suppressing any other nearby plants and without causing damage in the event of windstorms. For this last reason, it is advisable not to plant it too close to your house.
• Prefer native species to safeguard the biodiversity of your area.
• Do not try to force nature: make sure you plant your tree during the most suitable time of year.

External factors to consider before planting a tree

In addition to the factors strictly related to your needs and the characteristics of your garden, do not forget to evaluate in advance the issues related to bureaucracy and relationships with others:

• Before planting trees in the city, remember to find out about the urban planning regulations in force in your area. This way you can assess the feasibility of your project and avoid fines.
• Always make sure that there are no public utility structures in the ground below.
• Last but not least, use common sense in your relationship with any neighbors. Evaluate in advance the impact the tree, once grown, could have on neighboring properties.