Study Finds Single Urban Tree Can Absorb 27 Kilograms of Carbon Annually

SEOUL, July 25 (Korea Bizwire) — A research team at Seoul National University has revealed that a single street tree can absorb an estimated 27.1 kilograms of carbon dioxide annually, highlighting the significant role urban greenery plays in combating climate change.

Using LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) technology and high-resolution cameras mounted on vehicles, the researchers developed a method to automatically detect the location, species, and carbon storage capacity of street trees. The study analyzed over 34,000 street trees in Suwon, just south of Seoul.

The results showed that these trees collectively store approximately 6,180 tons of carbon, an amount equivalent to the carbon storage of 40 hectares of healthy forest—or roughly the environmental benefit of 57 soccer fields’ worth of greenery in an urban setting.

A roadside tree in Boramae Park. (Image courtesy of the Seoul Metropolitan Government)

Published in the international journal Remote Sensing of Environment, the study provides the first detailed measurement of urban trees’ carbon absorption capacity using remote sensing.

Professor Ryu Young-ryeol, who led the study, emphasized the potential impact of the findings on city greening strategies, such as planting more trees in high-emission areas or prioritizing species with greater carbon absorption potential.

“This research quantifies the hidden role of street trees in carbon sequestration and provides a scientific basis for more strategic urban forestry policies,” the team said.

Lina Jang (linajang@koreabizwire.com)