Artificial trees: Can we help nature become more efficient?

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• November 8, 2021

Artificial trees have the potential to extract significant amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere, outperforming natural trees by a considerable margin. While they come with a hefty price tag, the costs could be reduced with effective scaling, and their strategic placement in urban areas could drastically improve air quality. However, it's crucial to balance this technological solution with ongoing reforestation efforts and sustainable manufacturing practices, ensuring a holistic approach to environmental conservation.

Artificial trees context

The concept of artificial trees to combat climate change was first introduced in the early 2000s by Klaus Lackner, an engineering professor from Arizona State University. Lackner's design was a system capable of extracting approximately 32 tons of CO2 from the atmosphere, outperforming any natural tree by a factor of 1,000. However, the financial implications of such a system are significant, with estimates suggesting that a single artificial tree could cost anywhere between USD $30,000 to $100,000. Lackner is convinced that if the production process can be scaled effectively, these costs could be substantially reduced.

In 2019, a Mexico-based startup named BioUrban installed its first artificial tree in Puebla City. This company has developed a mechanized tree that uses microalgae to absorb CO2, a process that is reportedly as effective as 368 real trees. The cost of one of these artificial trees is around USD $50,000. BioUrban's pioneering work represents a significant step forward in the practical application of artificial tree technology.

If artificial trees become a viable and cost-effective solution, they could play a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of climate change. Industries that contribute heavily to carbon emissions, such as manufacturing and transportation, could offset their environmental impact by investing in these technologies. Furthermore, job markets could see a shift, with new roles emerging in the production, maintenance, and management of these artificial trees.

Disruptive impact

BioUrban said that artificial trees are not intended to replace natural ones but rather supplement them in highly urbanized areas with limited green spaces. For example, city planners could incorporate artificial trees into urban design, placing them in strategic locations, such as busy intersections, industrial zones, or densely populated residential areas. This strategy could lead to a reduction in respiratory diseases and other health issues related to poor air quality.

The potential of artificial trees to extract nearly 10 percent of total CO2 released in a year is a promising prospect. However, it is crucial that the manufacturing process of these trees is sustainable and does not contribute to the very problem they aim to solve. Companies could leverage renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, in the production process to minimize their carbon footprint. Governments could incentivize such practices by offering tax breaks or subsidies to companies that adopt sustainable manufacturing processes. 

Balancing the strategic installation of artificial trees with ongoing reforestation efforts is another important aspect to consider. While artificial trees can play a significant role in reducing carbon emissions in urban areas, they cannot replace the biodiversity and ecosystem services provided by natural forests. Therefore, governments and environmental organizations need to continue to prioritize reforestation efforts. For example, a portion of the profits from the sale of artificial trees could be allocated to fund reforestation projects. This strategy would ensure a holistic approach to tackling climate change, combining innovative technology with traditional conservation efforts.

Implications of artificial trees

Wider implications of artificial trees may include:

• Governments requiring a certain number of artificial trees to be “planted” in cities to maintain clean air levels.


• Companies funding artificial trees installation alongside traditional tree planting as part of corporate social responsibility initiatives.


• Increased use of renewable energies such as solar and wind power to operate mechanical trees.


• A new appreciation for environmental considerations among city dwellers, leading to a more eco-conscious society that values and promotes sustainable living.


• More investment in green technologies creating a new market sector focused on environmental solutions.


• Disparities in access to clean air leading to social movements advocating for equal distribution of these technologies to ensure environmental justice.


• Further innovation in carbon capture and storage leading to the development of more efficient and cost-effective solutions to combat climate change.


• The need for sustainable manufacturing processes and end-of-life management to prevent waste accumulation.

Questions to consider

• Would you be willing to have fake trees installed in your city? Why or why not?


• What do you think are the long-term effects of developing mechanical trees?