Because it is broadly understood that trees absorb carbon
dioxide through photosynthesis, much attention has been
paid to the storage of carbon in our forests. Policies such as
carbon credit schemes that offer rewards for carbon ‘sequestered’
in trees are being developed; however, these policies
risk being counterproductive to the aim of reducing atmospheric
carbon levels. The sustainable harvest of trees for fuel
and products is a more effective way to reduce the consumption
of fossil fuels than maximizing the storage of carbon in
trees and should be encouraged.