In September 2018, the world’s climate experts and researchers gave us a very serious warning. In order to limit the rise in the global temperature to 1.5 degrees Celsius, we need to do more. Current practices and measures are not enough. Paper straws, reusable bags and reducing water waste is just not enough to slow the damaging impact that our actions have on the Earth.
We know that climate change is the most important and prevalent issue of our generation. Escalated by the increasing amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) being released into the atmosphere through the rapid increase of industrialization as well as simply just driving an old diesel car.
According to an article penned by a group of Science researchers, planting trees is one of the best ways to help in the effort to combat the damaging effects of climate change. Trees produce oxygen alongside nutrients, whilst absorbing CO2 from the atmosphere during photosynthesis.
It is understandable that some people have negative preconceptions about large, mature trees being felled. However, it is important to remember that when these trees reach optimum maturity, their CO2 absorption is locked and held inside these trees. Over hundreds of years, this chemical can then be released back into the atmosphere. This explains why managed forests fell these types of trees for upcycling purposes. Turning the wood into products suitable for decking, cladding and many other uses. Making way for young trees and saplings to grow.
There is approximately nine million square kilometers of land on earth which can be utilized for planting trees. Making it possible for a trillion trees to be planted, in turn reducing the amount of CO2 being released into the atmosphere by approximately 750 billion tons. Equating to the same amount of CO2 that humans have released into the atmosphere in the last 25 years.
Planting trees alone is not enough to combat the expansive scale of climate change. However, it can be extremely effective when combined with reducing fossil fuel consumption and the use of clean energy technologies.
Every member of the QTD family has a sapling!
As a company that is proud to handle its raw materials from sustainable sources, as well as applying the necessary procedures for planting new trees in place of raw materials used, we know that more needs to be done.
So, as a first step, we decided to participate in the #futurecampaign, and have planted saplings around our factory, one for each employee and their family members. We planted, watered and owned Pine, Laurel, Black Mulberry and Cypress saplings.
We thank our team for supporting us and we will continue to work towards a greener and healthier world.