The Controversy Surrounding Tree-Planting Schemes and Climate Change

Planting trees in large-scale offsetting schemes to counter carbon emissions is actually harming nature, according to a study by Oxford University. Celebrities and tycoons, including Prince Harry, Meghan Markle, Elton John, Emma Watson, and Jeff Bezos, have used offsetting to cancel out greenhouse gases emitted by activities like flying in private jets. However, the study argues that monoculture tree plantations in these schemes degrade biodiversity, increase the risk of forest fires, and do little to absorb greenhouse gases. The authors suggest prioritizing the conservation and restoration of intact ecosystems instead.