Tree Planting Offset Calculator Formula
Understand the math behind the tree planting offset calculator. Each variable explained with a worked example.
Formulas Used
Trees Needed
trees_out = trees_neededTotal Planting Cost
total_cost = trees_needed * tree_costCost per Ton Offset
cost_per_ton = trees_needed * tree_cost / co2_tonsVariables
| Variable | Description | Default |
|---|---|---|
co2_tons | Annual CO2 to Offset(metric tons) | 10 |
kg_per_tree_per_year | CO2 Absorbed per Tree per Year(kg) | 22 |
tree_cost | Cost per Tree Planted(USD) | 3 |
co2_kg | Derived value= co2_tons * 1000 | calculated |
trees_needed | Derived value= ceil(co2_kg / kg_per_tree_per_year) | calculated |
How It Works
How to Calculate Trees Needed to Offset CO2
Trees absorb CO2 through photosynthesis and store carbon in their biomass.
Average Sequestration
A mature tree absorbs roughly 22 kg (48 lbs) of CO2 per year, though this varies widely by species, age, and climate.
Formula
Trees Needed = (CO2 in metric tons * 1,000) / kg absorbed per tree per year
Note that young trees absorb less; it takes 5-10 years for a sapling to reach average absorption rates.
Worked Example
Offset 10 metric tons of CO2 per year with trees absorbing 22 kg each at $3 per tree.
co2_tons = 10kg_per_tree_per_year = 22tree_cost = 3
- 01CO2 in kg: 10 * 1,000 = 10,000 kg
- 02Trees needed: ceil(10,000 / 22) = 455 trees
- 03Total cost: 455 * $3 = $1,365
- 04Cost per ton: $1,365 / 10 = $136.50/ton
Ready to run the numbers?
Open Tree Planting Offset Calculator