DRC: Urban trees are natural CO₂ stores that merit closer attention

In recent years, the role of urban trees in mitigating climate change has gained increasing attention, with a new study highlighting their potential as significant carbon sinks. Traditionally overlooked in climate policies, urban areas in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are now drawing the interest of scientists due to their capacity to offset substantial portions of human-related carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions.

A groundbreaking study conducted in the Ituri Province of Bunia, a city in northeastern DRC, has revealed that urban trees are not merely aesthetic features but natural carbon sinks. Researchers from the University of Bunia conducted an inventory of 2,311 trees across 21 one-hectare plots in three communes of Bunia: Mbunya, Nyakasanza, and Shari. Utilizing non-destructive methods that relied on tree diameter, height, and wood density, the team estimated the aboveground biomass and carbon stock without felling a single tree.

The findings of this study are striking. Urban trees in Bunia store an impressive 1,759 tons of aboveground biomass, translating to 8,795 tons of carbon sequestered. This equates to the removal of 2,374 tons of CO₂ from the atmosphere. On average, each urban tree in Bunia stores approximately 380 kilograms of carbon, which is equivalent to about 124 kg of CO₂ absorbed. In one urban hectare, the average carbon stock amounts to 47.6 tons.

These figures underscore the potential of urban trees to play a major role in conservation efforts. While natural forests have been the primary focus of climate policies, African urban areas have been largely absent due to a lack of reliable data. This study aims to address this gap by providing concrete evidence of the carbon sequestration capabilities of urban trees.

The study's findings have important implications for urban planning and climate change mitigation strategies. By recognizing the role of urban trees as natural carbon sinks, policymakers can prioritize tree planting and maintenance in cities, thereby enhancing their contribution to reducing CO₂ emissions. This approach not only addresses climate change but also improves urban livability, air quality, and biodiversity.

In the context of Bunia, the city is set to undergo significant development, including the construction of a modern international airport by early 2026. As part of sustainable urbanization efforts, integrating green infrastructure and prioritizing tree conservation will be crucial. The study serves as a reminder that urban areas, often overlooked in climate discussions, hold substantial potential in mitigating the impacts of human-induced CO₂ emissions.

In conclusion, the study conducted in Bunia's urban forests has revealed the untapped potential of urban trees as natural carbon sinks. By providing reliable data and highlighting their carbon sequestration capabilities, the research calls for a reevaluation of urban policies and strategies to combat climate change. As cities continue to grow and develop, recognizing and leveraging the role of urban trees in carbon storage will be essential for achieving global climate goals.