The question of how many trees there are in the world intrigues many. Over time, technological advances have allowed for more precise answers, although always with certain limitations due to the magnitude of the task. Trees, in addition to providing oxygen and being a source of life, also play a crucial role in the fight against climate change. Below, we will explore this fascinating topic in more depth based on the most recent studies and different approaches to the number of trees on Earth.
It is estimated that there are approximately 3 trillion trees on our planet. This figure comes from a study carried out by the journal Nature, which used satellite images combined with field data. The study indicates that there are, on average, 400 trees for every person in the world. However, deforestation, wildfires and human intervention have drastically reduced the number of trees over the years, losing almost 46% of the global tree population since the beginning of human civilization.
How are trees counted?
Counting trees is not an easy task. Today, Scientists use a variety of technologies such as satellite images and supercomputing models. In recent studies, such as those conducted by Yale University and other researchers around the world, these data were combined with local forest inventories, where tree densities per hectare were measured in different natural and protected plots.
This type of study has allowed us to obtain more precise and advanced figures, estimating that there are more than 3 billion trees across the globe. However, the figure could be higher if not only climate and soil but also local factors were taken into account. Some researchers suggest that many areas, such as cold or dry regions, may not be fully accounted for due to extreme weather conditions and lack of access to certain data.
An important point that has been raised is the self-thinning process, in which weaker trees die, allowing stronger ones to continue growing. This can directly influence the density of forests, especially those competing for limited resources such as light or water.
The relationship between trees and climate change
Trees are key in the fight against climate change because of their ability to store carbon. A single tree can absorb around 100% of the carbon dioxide produced by the atmosphere. 12 kg of carbon dioxide (CO2) per year, making it a “green hero” in terms of mitigating pollution caused by humans. In one hectare of trees, up to 100,000 tons of carbon can be absorbed. 6 tons of CO2Current estimates underline the need to plant and preserve more trees if we are to effectively combat the climate crisis.
However, deforestation remains an alarming problem. Approximately 100,000 trees are cut down each year. 15 billion trees, many of which cannot be adequately replaced. It is estimated that for every tree lost, at least seven would need to be planted to compensate for the loss.
Global distribution and undiscovered species
Trees are not evenly distributed throughout the world. While tropical and subtropical forests are home to the largest percentage of trees (around 43% of the world total), boreal forests North America, Scandinavia and Russia have the highest tree densities because they are more compact forests, with thin conifers.
On the other hand, recent research has revealed that there may still be more to be discovered around 9.000 species of trees, most of which are located in remote areas of South America, such as the Andes and the Amazon. These areas have great biodiversity, but also face great challenges due to the deforestation and human activities.
These new findings highlight the importance of continuing to research and protect forest ecosystems. As we better understand biodiversity and the number of rare species, we can make better decisions about how to preserve the planet and combat climate change.
All of these data underline the importance of trees in our world. Not only are they crucial for our survival, but they also play a vital role in the health of ecosystems and in the fight against climate change. While the figure of 3 trillion trees may seem high, the accelerated rate of deforestation reminds us of the urgency of caring for forests and carrying out continuous reforestation to ensure life on the planet.