…. something to think about.
A tree makes its own food through photosynthesis. Leaves absorb carbon dioxide ( 1 part carbon 2 parts oxygen)
Scientists are still working on how to calculate the amount of carbon in trees. The generally held view is:
The average carbon content of a tree is 50% of it’s dry weight.
A tree absorbs up to 20kg carbon dioxide (CO2) each year.
A 40 year old tree will contain up to 1 tonne of carbon.
Carbon is stored in the trunk, branches and roots (and a small amount in the leaves).
The greatest store of carbon is within the soil, so disturbing soil by deep digging releases carbon.
A 55cm3 block of wood contains the same amount of carbon as would be emitted by boiling a kettle or driving a moped 1km.
Sea Kayaks Rick Cooper, from Trematon, Saltash, British Sea Kayaks, sells new GRP, or carbon fibre or polyethylene, sea kayaks made in Anglesey. https://britishseakayaks.co.uk/
Making these kayaks will inevitably result in the release of CO2 into the atmosphere, thus adding to the greenhouse gases. Most sea kayakers have an environmental conscience, they paddle to remote places to observe beautiful scenery and wildlife. Each kayak sold is accompanied by a free native hardwood tree which during its life time, will hopefully offset/absorb the carbon released during its manufacture. Kayakers can choose the species of tree they want. Some want to grow the tree in a pot to begin with because they intend to move house and want to take it with them (good trees for this hornbeam, beech, lime, rowan, crab apple) The most popular for planting in the ground are silver birch and wild cherry. If you have nowhere to plant your tree we can plant one in our wood at Trematon.
We were delighted to show members of the South Hill Association for Renewable Energy, SHARE, around our young wood and where Rick has his kayaks.
Rick’s aim is to put you in the correct sea kayak for you, and believes you should try before you buy, whether you are a solo paddler or a group, Rick is an advanced sea kayak leader and during your demo will be there for your guidance and safety, giving hints and tips to help you get the best from your experience.
Interested ? ! Phone 07779 134888 rick@britishseakayaks.co.uk
Fiona Cooper, Tamar Valley Trees