"Calculating how much carbon is absorbed by which forests and farms is a tricky task, especially when politicians do it"

Donella Meadows' quote suggests that computing the amount of carbon absorbed by forests and farms is an uphill struggle, especially when political leaders are included. This could be due to the fact that political leaders might not have the necessary scientific knowledge to properly examine the amount of carbon absorbed, or due to the fact that they might be affected by their own political programs. Additionally, the quote suggests that political leaders might be most likely to make decisions based upon their own interests instead of on the very best clinical proof. This might cause inaccurate calculations and a lack of understanding of the real effect of carbon absorption on the environment. Eventually, Meadows' quote highlights the value of depending on scientific evidence when making choices about the environment, rather than on political interests.