HOW MUCH CO2 DOES OUR FOREST ABSORB?

Tree after tree, year after year, we have created a natural area that surrounds the site of our company, in the industrial zone of Soncino. That is a great little green treasure.

It is not only a well-kept garden; in fact, it is a true green lung. Every year, it contributes to the significant reduction of CO2 and to the production of oxygen.

We have often asked ourselves how much of a positive impact it could have on the environment. Therefore, in order to carry out our commitment, we asked Soulfood Forestfarms to map our company forest and to evaluate its services to the ecosystem.

What is the result? It is an analysis that makes us proud and that encourages us to do more for our planet.

A census to measure the value of nature

This intervention focused on an area of roughly 1.4 hectares, including:

  • 130 trees belonging to various species (maple, cedar, oak, paulownia, birch, beech, etc.);
  • A bamboo forest of 1.500 m2;
  • Hedges, on an extension of over 2.000 m2;
  • A dense population of small bushes and herbaceous plants;
  • Large areas of green lawns.

For every plant, Soulfood Forestfarms measured the log circumference, calculated the height and esteemed their capacity of CO2 absorption and oxygen production, employing scientific methods based on the principles of photosynthesis.

The numbers are clear: every plant matters

The entire Imbalplast forest represents a green oasis that, every year, is capable to capture and store between 8.5 and 19.8 tons of CO2; this value corresponds with that of a car, travelling between 46.000 and 100.000 km per year!

More green, more life: a never-ending commitment

Besides CO2 absorption, our forest contributes to the improvement of air quality; it also cultivates biodiversity and it mitigates the effects of climate change. The choice of the several types of plants was not casual at all. For example, if compared to other plants and trees, bamboos can emit 35% more of oxygen and regenerate the soil, even if consuming more water; also, hedges are natural barriers against wind, noise, and fine powders.

We have decided to carry out this mapping not only as a simple scientific exercise, but also as a concrete action to verify the correct direction of our choices as a company, by measuring and enhancing its positive impact. We are also employing this procedure for other sustainable ventures.

Looking forward: nature and industry growing together

In Imbalplast, we strongly believe that innovation shall answer the criteria of social responsibility and that it shall go through the respect of nature.

Our forest is not only a decoration; above all, it is a living resource connecting us to the territory and to everyday challenges. That is why we will keep investing in greening, in biodiversity, and in environmental awareness.

Every plant is a promise for the future – let’s cultivate it together!