This study investigates the role of upland tree woody surfaces in the global methane (CH₄) cycle. It finds that these surfaces can act as a net sink for atmospheric CH₄, particularly at heights above 2 meters above the forest floor. The study examines CH₄ exchange on woody surfaces in tropical, temperate, and boreal forests, using chamber measurements and stable carbon isotope analysis. The results suggest that methanotrophic bacteria on tree surfaces can significantly reduce CH₄ concentrations. By applying terrestrial laser scanning to estimate global tree woody surface area, the study estimates that trees may contribute 24.6–49.9 Tg of CH₄ uptake globally. This finding highlights the potential climate benefits of protecting and reforesting tropical and temperate forests, as the contribution of CH₄ sinks from these forests may be greater than previously thought. The study also discusses the implications for climate mitigation, suggesting that the tree CH₄ sink could add an extra 7% to 12% of greenhouse gas mitigation in temperate and tropical forests, respectively.This study investigates the role of upland tree woody surfaces in the global methane (CH₄) cycle. It finds that these surfaces can act as a net sink for atmospheric CH₄, particularly at heights above 2 meters above the forest floor. The study examines CH₄ exchange on woody surfaces in tropical, temperate, and boreal forests, using chamber measurements and stable carbon isotope analysis. The results suggest that methanotrophic bacteria on tree surfaces can significantly reduce CH₄ concentrations. By applying terrestrial laser scanning to estimate global tree woody surface area, the study estimates that trees may contribute 24.6–49.9 Tg of CH₄ uptake globally. This finding highlights the potential climate benefits of protecting and reforesting tropical and temperate forests, as the contribution of CH₄ sinks from these forests may be greater than previously thought. The study also discusses the implications for climate mitigation, suggesting that the tree CH₄ sink could add an extra 7% to 12% of greenhouse gas mitigation in temperate and tropical forests, respectively.