ISA Certified Arborist Practice Exam

Why are trees important for carbon sequestration?

1. They provide habitats for wildlife.

2. They absorb carbon dioxide, mitigating climate change.

3. They reduce soil erosion.

4. They produce more oxygen than other plants.

The correct answer is: They absorb carbon dioxide, mitigating climate change.

Trees play a crucial role in carbon sequestration primarily because they absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) during the process of photosynthesis. Through this process, trees convert CO2 from the atmosphere into organic matter, which becomes part of their structure as they grow. This function makes them vital in mitigating climate change, as they help to reduce the overall concentration of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. In addition to serving as carbon sinks, trees also contribute to other essential ecological functions such as providing habitats, reducing soil erosion, and producing oxygen. However, when focusing specifically on carbon sequestration, the key aspect is their ability to directly absorb CO2 and store it, thereby helping to combat global warming. This ability positions trees as critical components of climate change strategies, highlighting their environmental significance beyond their many other benefits.