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Trees are considerably more efficient than other plants at converting harmful CO2 into oxygen via photosynthesis. This is largely due to their size and extensive root structures which allow for greater amounts of CO2 to be stored. The question then, is specifically what trees are the best trees to plant?

In actuality, this is a deeply problematic question, and depends a great deal upon geographical factors, such as temperature and humidity, and upon the quality of the soil in the region. For example, Eucalyptus trees are grown effectively in Hawaii, Pine trees are effective in England, poplars in the great lakes and the famous hardwoods of the Mississippi valley are also one of the most effective trees to grow in that specific area.

Although this seems to be somewhat random and based upon complex local parameters, the general ideal can be said to be the following:

1) A tree that grows quickly is more effective at CO2 absorption.
2) A tree that lives for a long time is more effective at CO2 storage.

When a tree grows, it maximizes its absorption of CO2, which it then stores in a harmless form. Therefore, a tree that grows more quickly tends to absorb the greatest amounts of CO2. Secondly, a tree that lives for a long time will be able to store a larger quantity of CO2 in a given surface area. Unfortunately, these two factors are often mutually exclusive, and the fast growing trees are often those with the shortest lifespans.

The ideal tree species to grow to fight global warming is dependent on that specific region. However, if it satisfies the two criteria above in the most effective manner, then it will be the most effective tree to grow in that particular area.

Learn more about this author, Paul Stanway.
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