"Of vast circumference and gloom profound,
This solitary Tree!—a living thing
Produced too slowly ever to decay;
Of form and aspect too magnificent
To be destroyed."
-William Wordsworth
OUR STORY
As a passionate student dedicated to environmental conservation, I have created a website focused on tracking and protecting the ancient trees of Seoul. These venerable trees are not only natural wonders but also living monuments that bear witness to the city's rich history and cultural heritage. Through this platform, I aim to raise awareness about the significance of these old trees, providing fascinating insights into their historical periods, unique characteristics, and the crucial roles they play in our ecosystem. Each tree has its own story, often spanning centuries, and it is our responsibility to ensure their preservation for future generations.
The website serves as a hub for information and advocacy, offering detailed profiles of each tree, including their age, species, and historical background. Additionally, the site highlights any threats these trees may face, from urban development to environmental changes, and encourages community involvement in their protection. By engaging the public and fostering a sense of stewardship, I hope to inspire collective action to safeguard these natural treasures. Together, we can ensure that Seoul's old trees continue to thrive and remain a vital part of our city's landscape.
Why Old Trees are important?
Old trees are powerful symbols that connect us to historical sites and the passage of time. These ancient sentinels often stand as living monuments, witnessing centuries of human activity and natural events. Their presence evokes a sense of continuity and reverence, reminding us of the generations that have come before. As we marvel at their enduring strength and resilience, we are prompted to reflect on the history they have silently observed. Old trees enhance the historical value of their surroundings, serving as natural landmarks that anchor stories, traditions, and cultural heritage, making history feel tangible and immediate
What are the standards to be an Old Tree?
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Age:
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Generally, a tree is considered old if it has reached a significant age relative to its species' typical lifespan. For many species, this can mean several hundred years. For example, oak trees (Quercus spp.) are often considered old at around 200-300 years, and ancient at around 400-500 years.
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Species-Specific Lifespan:
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Different tree species have varying lifespans. Bristlecone pines (Pinus longaeva), for instance, are considered ancient at several thousand years old, while a birch tree might be considered old at 100 years.
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Cultural and Historical Significance:
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Trees that have played a role in cultural or historical events may be considered old or significant even if they are younger than other trees. Their historical or cultural value can elevate their status.
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Ecological Importance:
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An old tree often provides significant ecological benefits, such as habitat for wildlife, and these functions can be part of the criteria for its recognition as old.
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Local and Regional Definitions:
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Some regions have specific criteria for what constitutes an old or ancient tree. For example, in the UK, ancient trees are often classified based on girth (circumference) as well as age.
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OUR ACTIVITIES FOR TREES
Oppose Forest Service Logging for Carbon Neutrality
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Current Plans by the Forest Service:
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The South Korean Forest Service aims to achieve carbon neutrality by logging trees older than 30 years and replacing them with young trees, which they believe will absorb more carbon. The plan includes using logged trees for biomass energy and aims to absorb 21% of the nation’s greenhouse gases by 2027. This initiative has sparked significant controversy and criticism from environmentalists and researchers.
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Risks and Counterarguments:
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Increased Carbon Emissions: Logging releases stored carbon, negating carbon neutrality efforts.
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Ecosystem Damage: Large-scale logging disrupts habitats and degrades soil quality, causing long-term harm.
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Inefficiency: Young trees take decades to match the carbon storage capacity of mature forests.
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Natural Disasters: Logging increases the risk of landslides and other natural disasters by destabilizing mountain slopes.
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Scientific Opposition: Research indicates that intact forests are more effective for long-term carbon storage and climate regulation.
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Please Join us in opposing these harmful logging practices and advocating for sustainable forest management that truly supports carbon neutrality and biodiversity conservation.
