Laser-Equipped Drones Reveal China’s Vast Forest of 142.6 Billion Trees

A team of researchers in China has leveraged cutting-edge technology to conduct an unprecedented survey of the nation's tree population. By deploying LiDAR-equipped drones, they have calculated that China boasts approximately 142.6 billion trees, which averages to about 100 trees per person.

Innovative Approaches to Mapping Forests

Departing from conventional field surveys, the scientists used LiDAR technology to rapidly and accurately chart extensive forested regions.

This technology employs drones that send out laser beams and measure the time it takes for them to return, generating precise three-dimensional terrain models. Since 2015, the researchers have gathered LiDAR data from an area spanning 540 square miles (1,400 square kilometers).

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After acquisition, the data was analyzed using LiDAR360 software enhanced with artificial intelligence (AI) to determine tree density. The results indicate an estimated total of 142.6 billion trees across China.

The findings, released in Science Bulletin in February 2025, mark the inaugural high-resolution mapping of tree density throughout the country. Qinghua Guo, a professor at Peking University's Institute of Remote Sensing and Geographic Information System, highlighted that this research supports China’s global efforts in ecosystem restoration and sustainable environmental stewardship.

Challenges with the LiDAR Approach

One limitation of the LiDAR system is its reduced capacity to detect trees beneath dense forest canopies, particularly in thickly wooded areas. This can lead to undercounting.

Professor Qinghua Guo noted that the actual number of trees could be underestimated and emphasized the need for further refinement in measurement techniques.

Comparisons between these LiDAR-based results and the figures from China’s Ninth National Forest Resources Inventory reveal discrepancies: the Inventory indicated a higher density of 426 trees per acre versus the LiDAR’s estimate of 279 trees per acre. This suggests that the true value likely falls between these estimates.

China has become the fastest and largest contributor to global greening, with various achievements made in 2024, according to a report released on the National Tree Planting Day on March 12:
– 4.446 million hectares of afforestation
– 3.224 million hectares of grass planting and… pic.twitter.com/yP2msVCDNG

— People’s Daily, China (@PDChina) March 12, 2025

Importance of Accurate Tree Counts

Knowing the number and spread of trees across China is fundamental to evaluating the vitality of its forest ecosystems. Trees are vital for carbon storage, a critical factor in addressing climate change.

The insights from this study provide essential data for estimating carbon sequestration by China's forests, informing both national and international environmental strategies.

Moreover, detailed maps of tree distribution guide efforts in forest conservation and reforestation, helping to pinpoint regions that require ecological intervention and support China’s environmental programs.

China’s Ambitious Green Initiative: The Great Green Wall

The ongoing Great Green Wall project promises to dramatically expand China’s tree cover. Since its launch in 1978, this vast reforestation program aims to combat desertification in the north by establishing a broad belt of trees.

It is projected that by 2050 the project will encompass close to 100 billion new trees, significantly boosting the nation’s forest resources. The recent tree mapping data will be instrumental in advancing the Great Green Wall’s goals.