Tea has gained significant popularity as a beverage worldwide, with an estimated 2.5 billion cups consumed every day. However, the production and consumption of tea also have environmental implications, including carbon emissions.

The tea industry is responsible for an estimated 1.4 million metric tons of CO2 emissions annually, primarily from tea processing and transportation. Therefore, it is crucial to explore tea's potential to capture and sequester carbon, thereby mitigating its environmental impact.

Camellia sinensis, the plant species from which tea is derived, undergoes photosynthesis, a process that converts CO2 from the atmosphere into organic carbon compounds. Tea plants' leaves and stems are rich in chlorophyll, a pigment that enables photosynthesis, resulting in the removal of carbon from the atmosphere. Studies have shown that tea can capture between 20-45 kilograms of CO2 per kilogram of processed tea. This is a significant amount, considering the estimated annual tea production of over 7.01 billion metric tons of tea worldwide.

Composting tea leaves not only diverts waste from landfills but also helps to sequester carbon in the soil. According to the USDA, composting can increase the amount of carbon stored in soil by up to 20%. What about those leaves I have just brewed my cuppa with? Once brewed, tea leaves can be added to a compost bin or heap, where they will break down and become a nutrient-rich soil amendment. By composting used tea leaves, you can not only reduce your carbon footprint but also create a sustainable source of nutrients for your garden.

Moreover, tea plants can contribute to carbon sequestration by accumulating organic matter in the soil. The extensive root system of the tea plant and the fallen leaves and branches that accumulate on the ground lead to the buildup of organic matter in the soil. This, in turn, can lead to the sequestration of additional carbon in the soil. In one study, it was found that the carbon stored in the soil under a tea plantation was higher than in nearby forests, indicating the potential for tea to promote soil carbon sequestration.

However, the extent of carbon sequestration by Camellia sinensis depends on several factors, such as the age and health of the plant, the type of soil it grows in, and the management practices employed by tea growers. For instance, sustainable tea growing practices, such as intercropping tea plants with other species or using organic fertilizers, can enhance soil organic carbon accumulation and carbon sequestration.

The potential of tea to capture and sequester carbon is significant, particularly considering its widespread consumption worldwide. The tea industry is also expanding, with new tea plantations being established in various regions worldwide. Therefore, efforts to promote sustainable tea growing practices can contribute to mitigating climate change by reducing carbon emissions and promoting carbon capture and storage.

In addition to sustainable tea growing practices, other initiatives can also support carbon capture and sequestration by tea plants. For instance, the use of renewable energy sources in tea processing and transportation can reduce carbon emissions. Moreover, tea waste, such as used tea leaves, can be used as a source of organic fertilizer or for energy production, reducing waste and promoting circular economy practices.

In conclusion, tea has significant potential for carbon capture and sequestration, and sustainable tea growing practices can contribute to mitigating climate change. The tea industry's stakeholders, including growers, producers, and consumers, can play a crucial role in promoting sustainable practices and reducing carbon emissions. By supporting these initiatives, tea can continue to be a popular beverage while also contributing to a sustainable future for all.  

Zhao, X., Chen, X., Huang, X., Yang, J., Liu, J., Zhang, Z., ... & Zhang, Y. (2018). Carbon sequestration in tea plantations: The role of soil organic carbon. Science of the Total Environment, 635, 1448-1455. LINK