Offsetting global fossil fuel stores by planting trees is impossible

A study conducted by Alain Naef at ESSEC Business School in France and his team reveals the challenges of offsetting the carbon emissions from burning the fossil fuel reserves of the world’s largest companies. The estimated 182 billion tonnes of carbon stored in these reserves would require an area larger than North and Central America combined to be planted with trees for offsetting.

The analysis indicates that over 24.75 million square kilometres of land would need to be dedicated to tree planting, which is impractical and would disrupt existing settlements, farmlands, and natural habitats. Rich Collett-White from Carbon Tracker emphasizes the limitations of using afforestation as a solution, citing potential increases in food prices and deforestation to meet global food demands.

The financial implications of such a massive afforestation project are also significant. The cost of offsetting one tonne of CO₂ equivalent through tree planting is approximately $16. This cost would exceed the market value of 64% of the largest fossil fuel companies, excluding the expenses associated with acquiring the land. Using a higher carbon price to account for broader environmental impacts could render all these companies bankrupt.

While the idea of offsetting emissions through tree planting seems unfeasible, Naef and his team stress the importance of keeping fossil fuels in the ground rather than relying on ineffective offsetting measures. Tim Rayden from Trillion Trees echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the need for a rapid transition away from fossil fuels and towards decarbonization.