Insights
Old trees are true powerhouses of nature. They clean the air, provide shade, and produce oxygen. They also provide habitats for countless living things, from insects and birds to bats. They are an ecological treasure worth preserving.
This beech tree, which is about 100 years old, is a true natural wonder: its magnificent crown spans 1,200 square meters and is supported by more than 600,000 leaves. Every day, it absorbs around 18 kilograms of CO₂ from the air and produces 13 kilograms of oxygen—enough to meet the daily needs of ten people. It also filters dust, bacteria, and fungal spores from the air and releases around 400 liters of water through evaporation.
But old trees are at risk. Whether because of road construction or new building projects, many of these natural wonders are disappearing. Replacing them with young trees comes at a tremendous ecological and financial cost. It takes around 2,000 young trees to match the benefits of a single old beech. That’s why it’s all the more important to protect old trees and care for new ones.