Third Year of the monitoring project "Witness Tree" in Trinity College Botanic Gardens & National Botanical Gardens
Researchers at Plant Climate Lab entered the third year of the 30-year-long “Witness Trees” project to study how trees can help fight climate change and improve air quality. Using the mix of native and non-native trees, the project collects long-term data on carbon capture, air filtration, and ecosystem health in Dublin. This year, trees from both Trinity College Botanic Gardens and the National Botanical Gardens were included, expanding the study to North Dublin.
Led by Prof. Jennifer McElwain, with contributions from Dr Sate Ahmad, Dr Christos Chondrogiannis, Dr Michelle Murray, and Erasmus Master students Tina Monteiro and Morgane Weissenburger, the research aims to identify tree species most effective at absorbing pollutants and requesting carbon. The findings will provide valuable insights for future urban planning, helping cities adapt to environmental stresses. By focusing on species’ resilience and performance under varying conditions, the project not only supports Ireland’s climate goals but also offers insights into how urban forests can aid in addressing climate change worldwide.
For more information check the Witness Trees project website and read more online papers:
