Google Arts and Culture has unveiled an ambitious new project called World Wide Wood, revolutionising how people explore and understand trees worldwide. The groundbreaking initiative, developed in partnership with over 100 organisations across 36 countries, offers an immersive digital experience that celebrates the profound importance of trees in our ecosystem.

The innovative platform provides users with unprecedented access to comprehensive information about trees through interactive digital experiences. Nature enthusiasts can delve into detailed explorations of remarkable specimens like the California redwoods, whilst historians can examine the cultural significance of historic trees such as Buddha’s fig tree.

At the heart of World Wide Wood lies the Botanic Atlas, an advanced interactive tool developed through collaboration with prestigious institutions including the Botanical Research Institute of Texas, CRIA in Brazil, and Cambridge University Herbarium. This extensive database houses nearly 450,000 plant specimens representing more than 30,000 species, offering users detailed insights into global plant distribution and characteristics.

The project showcases some of Earth’s most remarkable trees, including Methuselah, a Great Basin bristlecone pine estimated to be over 4,800 years old, and Hyperion, a coast redwood standing more than 116 meters tall. These specimens demonstrate the extraordinary longevity and scale of trees as living organisms.

Environmental education takes centre stage in World Wide Wood, with dedicated sections highlighting trees’ vital role in maintaining ecological balance and combating climate change. Botanists and researchers can access digitised specimens from renowned institutions, whilst environmental advocates can explore comprehensive resources about forest conservation.

The collaborative nature of the project ensures a multifaceted approach to tree education. By partnering with numerous scientific and cultural institutions, Google Arts & Culture has created a resource that bridges the gap between academic knowledge and public understanding, making complex botanical information accessible to global audiences.

Looking ahead, World Wide Wood represents a significant step forward in digital environmental education. As climate challenges intensify, this platform serves as a crucial tool for raising awareness about forest conservation and inspiring future generations to protect these vital natural resources.

Through its innovative use of technology, World Wide Wood demonstrates how digital platforms can effectively promote environmental awareness and education. The project’s comprehensive approach to sharing knowledge about trees marks a significant advancement in public understanding of these essential organisms.

News Source: https://blog.google/outreach-initiatives/arts-culture/explore-the-amazing-world-of-trees-with-world-wide-wood/