Do Trees Release Carbon Dioxide?

Introduction

We often recognize trees as being like the "lungs of the Earth," absorbing all carbon dioxide and giving out oxygen in its place. The reality, though, of their relationship with CO₂ is a bit more complex than this partial truth. Therefore, do trees release carbon dioxide?

Like any other plant, trees undergo a process called photosynthesis during the day. This enables them to take in carbon dioxide, water, and sunlight to give out glucose and oxygen. That is basically how they help lower the amount of CO₂ in the atmosphere.

The equation for Photosynthesis: 6CO₂ + 6H₂Ο + Sunlight → C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂

This process, however, is not at all times one way. Trees respire just like humans do. In the process, trees use up oxygen and give out carbon dioxide. This happens throughout the day and night.

Respiration Equation: C₆H₁₂O₆ + 6O₂ → 6CO₂ + 6H₂O + Energy

Do Trees Give off Carbon Dioxide at Night?

The Nocturnal Enigma

Yes, trees do emit carbon dioxide at night. During the day, the balance of photosynthesis compensates for the carbon dioxide generated through respiration and finishes with a net intake of CO₂. At night, in the absence of sunlight, photosynthesis stops and only respiration happens, hence the trees give off CO₂ at night.

Fact: In 2022, scientists reported that large trees in the tropics release vast amounts of CO₂ at night. However, the net emission of CO₂ via this process is always distinctively less than that which plants absorb during the day.

The Global-View

Trees and Carbon Dioxide Around the Globe

Trees are a global factor in the carbon cycle. Nowadays, forests absorb some 30% of the CO₂ emissions resulting from human activities, which is extremely relevant in mitigating the climate crisis. Yet, deforestation and forest degradation put a shadow on this optimism.

The Amazon rainforest is sometimes referred to as the "lungs of the Earth." It is the largest carbon sink in Brazil. However, with rising deforestation, parts of the Amazon began emitting more CO2 than it could absorb. In 2021, a report said that because of deforestation and fires, the Amazon emitted more CO₂ than it absorbed for the first time in history.

Indian Scenario

India's Efforts in Tree Plantation

India have been active in the global effort towards increasing forest cover. Green India Mission is one such initiative that aims at the restoration of degraded ecosystems, adding to the forest area.

Fact: In 2019-2022, India added 1.2 million hectares of forest cover. Trees in India, as elsewhere remain standstill through the night, at maximum CO₂ absorption during the day; they release the carbon by night but the net benefit makes a difference.

Nature's Balance

Magic of Forests

Though trees emit CO₂, the net effect is in the positive direction. They absorb more CO₂ than they emit, thus balancing the natural cycle. They also provide habitats to a great number of species, help in regulating the water cycle, and prevent soil erosion.

Conclusion

Trees can be said to be highly essential and are very important for our planet. However, although they liberate CO₂, mainly at night, their respiration feature is far outweighed by the photosynthetic activity through which they absorb carbon dioxide and evolve oxygen. Such trees, protected and increased in number, shall guarantee a better and more balanced atmosphere for human beings yet to come into being.