Technology Enables a New Understanding of the World's 3.04 Trillion Trees

A news study, combining satellite imagery and field study, dramatically increases the estimated trees in the world. What has not changed: how quickly humans are killing those trees off.

1 minute read

September 4, 2015, 9:00 AM PDT

By James Brasuell @CasualBrasuell

Chris Mooney shares news of a study called a "blockbuster," which "finds that the planet is home to 3.04 trillion trees, blowing away the previously estimate of 400 billion." Put another way, there are 422 trees for every person.

But wait, there's a catch: "The study also finds that there are 46 percent fewer trees on Earth than there were before humans started the lengthy, but recently accelerating, process of deforestation." There are, in fact, fewer trees than at any point in human civilization.

According to Mooney, the research pins the blame for the loss of 15.3 billion trees a year on humans and other human-related effects like wildfire and pest outbreaks.

FULL STORY: Scientists discover that the world contains dramatically more trees than previously thought

Wednesday, September 2, 2015 in The Washington Post

Environment World Trees Deforestation Academic Studies Tree Wealth Tree Resources View More

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.