Fig Trees: Natural Allies in the Fight Against Climate Change

### Swift Summary
– Researchers have identified that certain Kenyan fig trees can store calcium carbonate in their trunks, effectively converting CO₂ into a mineral similar to chalk or limestone.
– This process, known as the oxalate-carbonate pathway, enables long-term carbon sequestration in soil.
– The study was presented at the Goldschmidt Conference 2025, held in Prague.
– These trees not only sequester carbon but also increase soil alkalinity and nutrient availability.
– Of three fig species studied in Kenya’s Samburu County, *Ficus wakefieldii* was found to be the most effective for CO₂ storage as calcium carbonate.
– Detailed analytical techniques like synchrotron analysis revealed deep sequestration of inorganic carbon within tree wood and surrounding soil.
– Scientists are planning further studies to evaluate these trees’ suitability for agroforestry by examining their water use efficiency and fruit yields under varying conditions.[Read More](https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/07/250706225819.htm)

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### Indian Opinion Analysis
This research underscores an often-overlooked dimension of afforestation projects by highlighting tree species with potential dual benefits: food production and long-term carbon sequestration. For India-facing both ecological degradation and agricultural challenges-species such as *Ficus wakefieldii* could inspire agroforestry innovations.Integrating such bio-geochemical findings into national afforestation strategies like CAMPA (Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority) could amplify efforts against climate change while together bolstering rural livelihoods through fruit production.

However, policy recommendations must consider local environmental conditions before introducing exotic species from Kenya. Rather, identifying Indian-native plants with similar oxalate-carbonate pathways could foster more enduring outcomes while enhancing biodiversity. This research opens new frontiers for leveraging botany in India’s fight against CO₂-related ecological threats.