When extensive global tree planting projects are now being planned, the lack of the right kind of seeds is a problem. Because if the plantings are to be as good for climate and biodiversity as one hopes, a large number of different tree species will be needed.
Last year, the World Economic Forum in Davos launched an initiative to plant and protect 1,000 billion trees by 2030. But there are also more global initiatives aimed at extensive tree planting as a complement to protecting existing forests.
The idea is that more trees should absorb more carbon dioxide and thus counteract global warming. At the same time, more wooded environments can benefit an endangered plant and animal life.
But a problem is where the new trees will come from.
– It is really a challenge in terms of access to seeds, says tree expert Christopher Kettle from the international research organization CGIAR.
So there is a shortage on seeds today. In order to create well-functioning ecosystems, many different tree species are needed. And for many species, especially in the tropics, there is a lack of a good seed collection and cultivation system.
But work is in progress. For example, by increasing the number of species among the trees from which seeds are collected in several Latin American countries. Like developing crops and finding more wild trees you can collect seeds from, says Christopher Kettle.
Hear more in Vetenskapsradion Klotet.
Sara Sällström
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