Every single year, billions of trees disappear from the planet as a result of a number of different factors. Fires, illegal logging, and environmental issues are just a few of the things that are causing trees to disappear in such staggeringly high numbers. But according to CBS News, a group in the UK has come up with a unique way to combat deforestation and potentially reverse this troubling trend.
A company called BioCarbon Engineering, founded by NASA and Lockheed Martin engineer Lauren Fletcher, wants to use drones to replant trees in deforested regions throughout the world. At first glance the idea might sound a bit too ambitious, but Fletcher believes the drones could serve as invaluable tools in the fight against deforestation.
BioCarbon Engineering’s replanting initiative involves a two-step process.
First, the drones will be used to analyze the land and provide important data about everything from the soil type to the existing plant life in the area. That will allow the team at BioCarbon Engineering to determine which tree species they should plant. From there, the drones will be loaded up with biodegradable “pods” that contain seeds and a nutritional mixture to assist with germination, and the pods would be fired into the soil by the drones to stimulate tree growth.
BioCarbon Engineering’s planting program is already enjoying some success, too.
The company just completed a planting project in Australia, and they have plans to conduct additional tests in Brazil, Canada and the U.S. soon. And if all goes according to plan, the team at BioCarbon Engineering hopes to plant 1 billion trees a year with its drones.
At Cold Stream Farm, we love to hear about new and innovative methods companies are using to plant more trees around the world. We also love providing people with everything they need to plant trees on their own properties. Browse our tree selection online or give us a call at (231) 464-5809 today to learn more.
