Data Validation
& Research

transparency you can trust

The scientific research and trusted sources behind our environmental impact statistics that ensures you can see the real-world difference your trees are making.

Understand what a $1 achieves

48
lbs CO₂ absorbed
per year
-5°C
cooling effect
local area
300+
species supported
biodiversity
0.47%
of car emissions
offset annually

Reality Check

While each tree makes a meaningful impact, it takes 211 trees to offset one car's annual emissions. Climate action requires both individual contributions and systemic change.

CO₂ Absorption by Trees

48 lbs CO₂/year

A mature tree absorbs an average of 48 lbs (21.8 kg) of CO₂ per year. Over a 40-year lifespan, a single tree sequesters approximately 1,920 lbs (~870 kg) of CO₂.

Verified Sources

U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
Verified
"A mature tree absorbs about 48 lbs of CO₂ per year."
View Source
Verified 2024-01-15
USDA Forest Service Study
Verified
"Urban trees can store 2.4 billion tons of carbon and sequester 25.6 million tons annually."
View Source
Verified 2024-01-10

Calculation Method

48 lbs CO₂/year × 40 years = 1,920 lbs lifetime CO₂ absorption
Annual absorption: 48 lbs CO₂
Tree lifespan: 40 years average
Total lifetime: 1,920 lbs CO₂

Car Emissions vs. Tree Offset

211 trees = 1 car/year

A typical passenger vehicle emits ~10,141 lbs (4.6 metric tons) of CO₂ annually. 211 trees are needed to absorb 1 car's yearly emissions.

Verified Sources

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Verified
"The average passenger vehicle emits about 4.6 metric tons of CO₂ annually."
View Source
Verified 2024-01-20

Calculation Method

10,141 lbs CO₂ ÷ 48 lbs CO₂/tree/year ≈ 211 trees
Annual car emissions: 10,141 lbs CO₂
Tree absorption rate: 48 lbs CO₂/year
Trees needed: 211 trees

Temperature Reduction Effect

Up to 5°C cooling

One mature tree can cool the surrounding area by 2–9°F (1–5°C) through evapotranspiration and shade.

Verified Sources

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Verified
"Trees and vegetation lower surface and air temperatures through evapotranspiration."
View Source
Verified 2024-01-18
University of Wisconsin Study
Verified
"Tree canopy reduces ambient air temperatures in cities significantly."
View Source
Verified 2024-01-12

Calculation Method

Evapotranspiration + Shade = 1-5°C temperature reduction
Evapotranspiration cooling: 60-70% of effect
Shade cooling: 30-40% of effect
Combined effect: 1-5°C reduction

Species Supported Per Tree

300+ species

A single tree supports 200–500 insect species, 2–3 bird species, and many mammals, creating complex ecosystems.

Verified Sources

Smithsonian Global Tree Biodiversity Study
Verified
"Native trees are critical to sustaining complex ecosystems."
View Source
Verified 2024-01-14
European Environment Agency (EEA)
Verified
"Urban tree canopy cover can range from 5 m² to 50 m² depending on species."
View Source
Verified 2024-01-16

Calculation Method

Insects + Birds + Mammals = 300+ species per tree
Insect species: 200-500
Bird species: 2-3
Mammal species: Variable
Total supported: 300+ species

We work with verified reforestation partners and perform reviewed research to ensure all reported metrics are authentic and reliable.

Making an Impact Together

Every tree you plant is a step toward cleaner air, cooler cities, carbon-neutral transportation, and healthier ecosystems.

Start Planting Trees Today