Continue
What is the primary way trees help cool our climate?
They sway so much they blow all of the greenhouse gases into outer space
They pull carbon out of the atmosphere and store it in their roots, leaves and trunks
They transfer water into the soil which helps cool the surrounding land
They release oxygen which counterbalances the effect of carbon dioxide
Continue
How do trees protect our soils?
Trees add nutrients to the soil and stabilise the ground against erosion
Trees ensure their roots remain close to the surface of the soil so as not to disturb nutrient-cycling earthworms
Trees limit the amount of rain hitting the ground and ensure the soil stays dry
Tree roots churn soil and increase gas and nutrient cycling
Continue
How do businesses use 'carbon credits'?
All Australian businesses are allocated a certain amount of 'carbon credits' each year, and they can use them to offset their emissions
Every time a business emits one tonne of carbon dioxide, they tap their carbon credit card
Businesses use carbon credits to offset and compensate for their greenhouse gas emissions
Business managers use carbon credits to pay for supplies containing lots of carbon
Continue
Why is relying on trees to keep the Earth cool a risky approach?
There's a limit to the amount of carbon trees can capture. So, if we keep emitting at our current rate there won't be enough trees to offset the carbon dioxide we produce
Trees just aren't very reliable and can just decide to reject carbon at any moment
There is no risk involved – trees are the best possible way to reduce emissions and the impact of climate change
Trees that store too much carbon can actually heat up and contribute to the warming of our planet
Continue