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Our carbon calculation methodology

A data-driven methodology designed to measure, verify, and deliver reliable carbon impact

Tree-Nation is dedicated to making global reforestation accessible by implementing our unique carbon dioxide (CO2) offset methodology, which allows us to offer affordable tree prices and diverse planting options. Our methodology differs from others, such as that of the Verified Carbon Standard (VCS), Climate, Community & Biodiversity (CCB), or Plan Vivo as outlined below:

Traditional certifications Tree-Nation methodology

Offsets calculated per hectare

Offsets calculated per tree

Offsets estimated over aspirational time horizons (up to 100 years)

Offsets estimated over conservative time horizons (up to 10 years)

Documentation-centred approach

Remote sensing-centred approach

Limited species selection

Flexible species selection

Limited planting methods

Flexible planting methods

Limited outcome verification

Continuous verification via remote sensing & geolocated field data

Large projects, only

All project sizes

How we calculate CO₂ offsets

Our CO₂ calculations are continuously refined using real-time project data collected primarily through remote sensing, complemented by on-site analysis. Now in its fifth version, our methodology follows three key steps:

1️⃣ Calculating tree volume
For each species, we assess multiple factors—including height, trunk diameter, branch and root volume, dry mass, wood density, growth rate, climate, and lifespan—to determine a reliable average tree size.

2️⃣ The carbon equation
Dry wood consists of approximately 50% carbon, 6% hydrogen, 44% oxygen, and trace elements. Using a tree’s estimated mass, we calculate the total amount of carbon stored.

3️⃣ From carbon to CO₂ offset
To convert carbon into CO₂ offset, we apply a standard ratio of 3.667 (the molecular weight difference between carbon and CO₂). We cap our calculations at 10 years of tree growth, ensuring the data reflects peak absorption periods (typically between 10 and 35 years). This provides a swift and measurable impact in fighting climate change.

🔟 10-Year CO₂ modeling & upfront accounting

Tree-Nation’s methodology estimates how much CO₂ each tree will capture over its first 10 years—a period when growth and absorption are typically at their peak.

We credit this 10-year value upfront, at the moment the tree is planted. This allows you to see your expected environmental impact right away, while remaining transparent that:

⚠️ The carbon is not absorbed instantly — trees capture CO₂ gradually over time.

This ex-ante approach aligns with widely accepted environmental reporting practices and ensures clarity when presenting your impact to stakeholders.

Why use 10-year estimates?

  • Reliable & conservative: We base our values on conservative assumptions, and cap all species’ CO₂ values to reflect only their first 10 years of growth.

  • Transparent & standardized: You can compare tree impact across species and projects with confidence.

  • Visible & motivating: Displaying estimated CO₂ capture helps you, and your audience, track progress, stay engaged, and celebrate milestones.

Methodology documentation

Our carbon methodology is continuously developed and refined, with clear documentation available for transparency and auditability.

You can access the latest version here:

👉 Download Tree-Nation Carbon Methodology

We will continue publishing updated versions of our methodology as it evolves, including detailed documentation for Foundation-certified systems in future releases.