How Fig Trees Can Help Fight Climate Change by Transforming CO2 into Stone

Some fig trees have a unique ability to turn carbon dioxide into calcium carbonate, a process that helps sequester carbon in the soil long after they die. This means these trees could play a significant role in fighting climate change while also providing food.

All trees absorb CO₂ from the atmosphere. Typically, this carbon becomes part of the tree’s structure, such as cellulose. However, certain trees, including some fig species, can convert CO₂ into a crystal called calcium oxalate. Bacteria then transform this into calcium carbonate, which makes up rocks like limestone.

Carbon stored as minerals can remain in the soil much longer than when it’s part of organic matter. For example, the iroko tree, which grows in tropical Africa, also stores carbon but primarily serves as timber rather than a food source.

Recent research from Mike Rowley, a scientist at the University of Zurich, and his team discovered that three fig tree species in Kenya can produce calcium carbonate from CO₂. “A large part of the trees becomes calcium carbonate above ground,” Rowley notes. He points out that entire root structures were found to be calcium carbonate in high concentrations.

To identify these fig species, the researchers used a weak hydrochloric acid. When applied to the trees, bubbles indicated the presence of CO₂ being released from calcium carbonate. They also measured how far this mineral extended into the surrounding soil.

One unexpected finding for Rowley was how deeply the calcium carbonate penetrated the wood. “I expected it to be a superficial process, but it went much deeper,” he said.

Experts believe more research is needed to fully understand how much carbon these trees can store and how they perform in various climates. If fig trees can be included in future reforestation efforts, they could offer dual benefits: food production and increased carbon storage.

### Social Media Insights

On platforms like Twitter, scientists and environmentalists have been sharing these findings, highlighting the potential of fig trees in combating climate change. Posts often include graphics illustrating the carbon sequestration process, sparking discussions about sustainable planting.

### Related Facts

– According to the World Resources Institute, forests sequester about 2.6 billion tons of CO₂ each year. Incorporating trees with unique properties like fig trees could boost these numbers.
– Studies show that reforestation can restore ecosystems and support biodiversity, making the case for integrating diverse tree species in such initiatives.

This research sheds light on the importance of exploring different tree species for reforestation. As we face climate challenges, innovations like those found in fig trees could make a notable difference in our battle against climate change.



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