Should I offset my flight with trees?

Only through verified programs (Gold Standard, Verra) with permanence guarantees. Better: fly less, then offset the remainder.

Carbon 6 min read November 18, 2025

How Many Trees Does It Really Take to Offset a Tonne of CO₂?

A mature tree absorbs ~22 kg CO₂/year. So one tonne = 45 trees for a year — but planting isn't the same as sequestration. Here's the honest math.

A mature broadleaf sequesters 20–25 kg CO₂/year. Over a 40-year lifetime, that's ~1 tonne per tree — but only if the tree lives that long.

Trees take 20+ years to reach full sequestration. Fires, pests, and land-use change release carbon back. Reduce first, offset only what's left.

Should I offset my flight with trees?: Only through verified programs (Gold Standard, Verra) with permanence guarantees. Better: fly less, then offset the remainder.

carbon offset trees reforestation climate