The Fastest-Growing Tree in Temperate Climates
Paulownia tomentosa and its hybrid varieties have long been recognised as among the fastest-growing woody species in temperate zones. Annual height increments of three to five metres and trunk diameters increasing by several centimetres per season make it exceptional for biomass accumulation. Yet until recently, systematic scientific validation of its carbon sequestration capacity under structured agroforestry conditions remained limited.
New research supported by the bio innovation park Rheinland and co-authored by Professor Ralf Pude at the University of Bonn provides the most comprehensive quantification to date. The study examined Paulownia grown in polyculture configurations — integrating intercrops including legumes, garlic, aloe vera, and aromatic herbs — over a three-year observation period at multiple test sites in North Rhine-Westphalia.
Key Findings: Carbon Sequestration at Scale
The research findings confirm a carbon sequestration rate of approximately 30 tCO2 per hectare per year for mature Paulownia polyculture plantations. This figure reflects:
- Above-ground biomass in trunk, branches, and leaf matter
- Below-ground carbon in root systems, which can extend to depths of four metres
- Soil organic carbon increase attributed to leaf litter decomposition and mycorrhizal activity
- Reduced tillage carbon benefits from the intercrop management regime
Measurements were conducted in accordance with ISO 14064-2 guidelines, which govern quantification and reporting of greenhouse gas removals at the project level. This methodological rigour is a prerequisite for CRCF certification under EU Regulation 2024/3012.
The VERDANTIS Polyculture System (VPS)
VERDANTIS has integrated the Bonn research findings into its proprietary Polyculture System (VPS). The VPS is structured in two operational phases:
- Phase 1 (Years 1–3): Establishment of Paulownia canopy, active intercropping with fast-yield species including garlic, legumes, and mint. Revenue generation from intercrop sales begins in Year 1.
- Phase 2 (Years 4–7): Full canopy establishment, maximum carbon sequestration rates, timber volume build-up, and first coppice cycle. Carbon credit issuance commences under CRCF registry.
Scientific Credibility and Investor Confidence
The University of Bonn partnership provides independent validation of carbon accounting claims — a critical differentiator in an era when greenwashing scrutiny is intensifying. For institutional investors evaluating VERDANTIS under SFDR Article 9, the academic backing reduces non-financial disclosure risk and supports the sustainability of projected returns.
At 30 tCO2/ha/year and projected CRCF-compliant credit prices of EUR 40–70 per tonne, the carbon revenue stream alone represents a structurally compelling component of the VERDANTIS investment thesis.
The research is ongoing, with Phase 2 site data expected to be published through the bio innovation park Rheinland network in 2025. VERDANTIS expects the full validation study to serve as a foundational methodology document for CRCF certification filings.