University of Dundee study reveals the amenity value of its trees to be over £38 million

The report, prepared by urban forest experts Treeconomics, highlights not only the environmental impact, but also the significant economic value these trees contribute to the University's urban landscape.

The study was carried out over two years, and involved University students and staff, as well as volunteers and contractors from the area.  Treeconomics used specialised i-Tree software and the CAVAT method to calculate the economic values of the trees and the ecosystem services they are providing.

This is the first time a university campus and botanic garden in the UK has used this process to measure the ecosystem services of its landscapes.

The study found:

• The number of trees recorded was 1,378, with 243 species identified
   
• The trees have the potential to remove over 60kg of air pollutants each year
   
• Annually, the trees reduce water runoff by approximately 1,600 cubic metres, which helps divert water from drainage systems; this is worth an estimated £2,600 in avoided water treatment costs
   
• The tree population is storing over 633 tonnes of carbon and sequestering an additional 15.7 tonnes of carbon each year
   
• The trees are providing other valuable services which are not currently measurable, such as wildlife habitat provision, soil conservation, and noise reduction.
   
• The amenity value of the trees, as calculated using the CAVAT valuation method, stands at an impressive £38.1 million.  The replacement cost is estimated to be £1.48 million.

The Treeconomics report is the latest study to utilise the Botanic Garden. Staff are also involved in the pan-European Urban ReLeaf project, which is encouraging thousands of members of the public to install sensors and use mobile phone apps to capture data on the local environment.

Kevin Frediani, Curator of the Botanic Garden, said, “The release of this tree asset valuation marks a significant milestone for the University of Dundee, showcasing the immense value of our green infrastructure.

“This study not only positions us as a leader among UK universities and botanic gardens, but also aligns with the Urban ReLeaf vision of fostering resilient, green and blue urban environments.”