Trees are one of Earth’s greatest assets. They play an important role in our environment and our lives - but it’s easy to forget this simple fact as we continue to grow more distant from nature.
Planting a tree may sound like something reserved for environmentalists or tree huggers, but in reality, it’s something we all can do (and should be doing). The benefits of planting trees are immeasurable, and it’s one of the easiest ways to make a positive impact on the environment. Want to learn about the benefits of planting trees? Here are six.
1. Trees Help Combat Climate Change
Excess carbon dioxide (CO2) in the air is one of the biggest contributors to climate change. Trees absorb CO2, remove and store the carbon, and release oxygen back into the air. In one year, one acre of forest can remove nearly three tons of CO2 from the environment.
2. Trees Clean the Air
Trees (and their leaves) absorb odors, dust, and pollutant gasses such as nitrogen oxide, ammonia, and sulfur dioxide. The odors and gasses are then trapped in the leaves and bark, reducing the levels of particulates that can damage our lungs and lead to respiratory disease.
3. Trees Help Conserve Energy
Trees that are strategically placed around single-family homes help provide cooling shade during the hot summer months, allowing you to conserve energy and save money on your air conditioning bill. In the winter, trees break the force of the wind, lowering heating costs.
4. Trees Provide Food
Trees produce many different types of fruits and nuts including apples, peaches, pears, oranges, plums, pecans, almonds, and walnuts. Unlike other crops, trees only need to be planted once, thus minimizing soil and nutrient loss.
5. Trees Increase Property Values
It sounds like common sense, but a house with trees typically looks more inviting than a home without trees. Houses with trees can increase the value of your home because they add “curb appeal” by making the home look more cared for. In fact, trees can raise property values by as much as 15%.
6. Trees Provide Habitat for Wildlife
Trees provide a habitat and refuge for many different animals including bees, birds, and squirrels. To ensure that these animals have a place to live, consider planting a species of tree that’s native to your area. By doing so, you’ll guarantee that the tree can survive in your geographic area and is well-suited for native species.
Above all, trees are easy (and fun) to plant! Grab your friends, family, or children, head to the store, buy a seed, and plant a tree. Not only are you making a positive impact on the environment, but you’re having fun doing it.
