Science supporting the 2 Billion Trees program

Graphic featuring tree planting and research related themes

Planting today for a better tomorrow

As part of the Government of Canada's continued commitments to addressing climate change and biodiversity loss, the 2 Billion Trees (2BT) program was announced in 2020.

Led by NRCan's Canadian Forest Service (CFS), from 2021 to 2031, up to $3.2 billion will be invested in tree planting efforts across Canada. The funding will be used to support provinces, territories, third-party organizations (including for-profit and not-for profit) and Indigenous organizations in meeting the target. Planting two billion trees is a step forward in Canada’s approach to tackle the dual crises of climate change and biodiversity loss, consequently helping to ensure that forests remain healthy for future generations.

Sharing knowledge to support successful tree planting

The 2BT program aims to support new tree planting projects by sharing scientific and technical knowledge. The CFS possesses extensive information that can support the success of the program. Efforts are being made to address the needs of program recipients through the promotion of existing knowledge and the mobilization of relevant, accessible science-based information through diverse formats and channels.

The 2BT program is concurrently investing in targeted research projects. This new research will:

address knowledge gaps
inform innovative practices to maximize carbon capture
optimize benefits for biodiversity and human well-being

Results of these research projects will be made publicly available on the CFS publications site. Some of those results can also be found on the related pages below.

2BT research activities

Appropriate steps must be taken before, during, and after trees have been planted to ensure the survival of planted trees. To learn more about science activities supporting various steps of tree planting – including seed management, site preparation, tree planting and site monitoring – see the following pages.