Tesla’s German Gigafactory Faces Allegations of Deforestation and Carbon Emissions

An environmental agency has accused Tesla of deforesting approximately 500,000 trees during the construction of its German Gigafactory, resulting in a 13,000-ton increase in carbon emissions. However, Tesla has responded by stating that it planted over 1 million trees in 2024 as part of a large-scale reforestation initiative.

Deforestation and Carbon Emissions

Kayrros, an environmental monitoring company, reports that Tesla cleared 813 acres of forest between 2020 and May 2023, when construction at the site was completed. This deforestation is equivalent to driving 33 million miles (53 million km) in a single combustion vehicle or having 3,000 cars operating for an entire year.

Controversy Surrounding Tesla’s German Gigafactory

Tesla’s German Gigafactory has faced significant controversy in recent years. Last month, the local environment ministry approved plans to expand the site and double production to 1 million cars annually, sparking fresh protests. In May, nearly 800 demonstrators stormed the plant.

Reforestation Efforts by Tesla

While it is undeniable that Tesla had to remove trees to build its new EV assembly plant, the company claims to have replanted more than 1 million trees in Germany to offset the deforestation. In a video posted in July, Tesla showcased its reforestation efforts, stating that it has replanted trees over an area equivalent to 450 soccer fields. The replanted trees include a diverse mix of deciduous species such as hardwoods, cherry, hornbeam, and lime trees.

Although the impact of 1 million new trees may not be equal to that of half a million fully-grown trees in terms of carbon dioxide absorption, Tesla is making an effort to mitigate the damage caused by deforestation.