Scientific Information

    At Forest4Future, our tree selection is guided by science. Each tree species has a different life expectancy, growth rate, climate resilience, and carbon sequestration potential. We focus on planting native deciduous trees, especially oak, beech, and chestnut, due to their long lifespans, resistance to disease, and high capacity to absorb CO2 over time.

    We focus on native deciduous trees because of their:

    • Longevity – Average lifespan of 150 years, with many living over 300 years, and some even surpassing 500.
    • High carbon absorption – Mature oaks are among the most efficient native trees in Europe for capturing CO2.
    • Biodiversity support – These trees provide essential habitats for countless plant and animal species.

    Yet not every tree will survive. We anticipate that around one-third may be lost due to disease, drought, or other environmental factors. The rest will continue growing, anchoring healthy ecosystems and capturing carbon long into the future.

    The CO₂ Impact of Our Forests

    • 100 oak trees can absorb an estimated 375 tons of CO2 over their 150-year lifespan.
    • 240 mature oak trees can offset the annual carbon emissions of one average European citizen (approx. 6 tons of CO2*).
    • To offset the lifetime emissions of an average European citizen, would require the planting of about 130 oak trees, assuming a 150-year lifespan. (average European citizen emits 6 tons CO2 per year over a life expectancy of 81.5 years **)

      • These numbers highlight the long-term impact of planting native trees today, not just as a symbolic gesture, but as a scientifically grounded, measurable action against climate change.

      * C02 emmission data: https://edgar.jrc.ec.europa.eu/report_2024?vis=co2pop#emissions_table

      ** Life expectancy: https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/web/products-eurostat-news/w/ddn-20240503-2