FIG TREE X CARBON TRAP

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Gist of the Article

• Some fig trees have a unique ability to convert carbon dioxide (CO₂) into a stable mineral form—calcium carbonate—effectively locking carbon away for long periods even after the tree dies.

• Most trees absorb CO₂ and use the carbon to build organic molecules, but certain fig trees go further: they turn CO₂ into calcium oxalate, which soil bacteria then convert to calcium carbonate (similar to limestone and chalk).

• This mineralized carbon can remain in the soil much longer than organic matter, enhancing carbon sequestration and having additional climate benefits beyond what is typical for forests.

• Research led by Mike Rowley (University of Zurich) found that three native fig species in Kenya’s Samburu County significantly produce calcium carbonate from atmospheric CO₂.

• The researchers discovered that not only the tree's above-ground parts but also entire root systems can become mineralized with calcium carbonate, well beyond what was previously expected.

• Experiments involved applying acid to roots and wood to see CO₂ bubble out, confirming calcium carbonate's presence. They also analyzed how far the effect extended into surrounding soil and tree trunks.

• The findings suggest these fig trees—if widely planted for forestry or fruit—could have valuable extra impact for climate mitigation, as their unique chemistry stores carbon in mineral, not just organic, form.