April 22nd, 2009

Avoided deforestation (AD) is the most popular choice when companies choose forestry projects for carbon offsets. AD was the most popular choice with 91% of respondents to the survey, although reforestation with native tree species came in a close second with 89%.

The survey, ‘Forest Carbon Offsetting Survey 2009‘, was published in mid-April by EcoSecurities and other contributors.

On this Earth Day 2009, we believe this high level of support is important, because trees and forests represent climate change opportunity at the most meaningful, personal level, the individual.

While carbon offsets can be tough to conceptualize, and measuring carbon footprints seem theoretical, nothing beats digging a hole and planting a tree to engender plenty of feel-good emotions. As children, we learn that trees take carbon dioxide and produce oxygen, so the simple activity of planting a tree provides a tangible benefit immediately which “sustains” us for years to come as we watch it grow.

You never forget planting tree. For example, have you ever returned to a house you sold years ago, and your first comment is, “Look how big the tree has grown! I remember when we planted it, and it was only a foot tall.” Trees have permanence; you count how many years the tree has been living. Trees are personal; it’s a special bond between you and the tree, as if your name is on it that no one else sees but you. And you feel compelled to tell others about your bond with that tree.

Did you plant a tree on Earth (or Arbor) Day this year, or before, and receive these benefits in return?

photo credit:  Environmental Council of Sacramento

Posted in Carbon Offsets, Forestation |

Comments

Leave a Reply

 Comment Form 

Name (required)

E-Mail (required)

Website

Your Comment