How Much CO2 Does a Tree Absorb?
By Maurizio Giorda · 1 Jul 2026 in About our trees
A tree absorbs roughly 10–40 kg of CO₂ per year once established, with a commonly used average of about 25 kg/year — but the real figure depends heavily on species, climate, age and survival rate. Fast-growing tropical species absorb more per year; young seedlings absorb little in their first years; and a credible programme must account for trees that don't survive.
What determines a tree's CO₂ absorption
- Species. Growth rate and wood density vary enormously — a mangrove or tropical pioneer differs from a temperate oak.
- Climate & site. Rainfall, temperature and soil quality drive growth speed.
- Age. Absorption is low in early years, peaks during vigorous growth, then slows at maturity.
- Survival. Honest accounting discounts for mortality — quoting per-planted-tree figures without it overstates impact.
Why averages mislead
Headlines often claim a fixed “1 tree = X kg” figure. Serious estimates are ranges per species and project, accumulated over the tree's lifetime (often quoted over 20–40 years rather than per year). That is why Evertreen publishes its methodology openly — see how we estimate tree CO₂ — and applies conservative, species-specific values.
What this means for your planting
To offset a defined footprint, start from the tonnes you emit (use the CO₂ calculator), then either plant enough trees with conservative absorption estimates or pair planting with certified carbon credits for audited claims. Every Evertreen tree is geolocated and satellite-monitored, so the absorption you claim is tied to trees that verifiably exist.
Frequently asked questions
How much CO₂ does one tree absorb per year? Typically 10–40 kg once established (~25 kg is a common average), varying by species, climate and age.
How much over a tree's lifetime? Often hundreds of kilograms over 20–40 years for a healthy tree — species-dependent; Evertreen uses conservative per-species estimates.
Can trees offset my whole footprint? They can absorb a meaningful share over time; for audited neutrality claims, combine planting with certified credits.
