Trees combat climate change
Excess carbon
dioxide (CO2) caused by many factors is a building up in our atmosphere and
contributing to climate change. Trees absorb CO2, removing and storing the
carbon while releasing the oxygen back into the air. In one year, an acre of
mature trees absorbs the amount of CO2 produced when you drive your car 26,000
miles.
Trees clean the air
Trees absorb
odors and pollutant gases (nitrogen oxides, ammonia, sulfur dioxide and ozone)
and filter particulates out of the air by trapping them on their leaves and
bark.
Trees provide oxygen
In one year an
acre of mature trees can provide enough oxygen for 18 people.
Trees cool the streets and the city
Average
temperatures in Los Angeles have risen 6°F in the last 50 years as tree
coverage has declined and the number of heat-absorbing roads and buildings has
increased.
Trees cool the city by up to 10°F, by shading our homes and streets, breaking up urban “heat islands” and releasing water vapor into the air through their leaves.
Trees cool the city by up to 10°F, by shading our homes and streets, breaking up urban “heat islands” and releasing water vapor into the air through their leaves.
Trees conserve energy
Three trees
placed strategically around a single-family home can cut summer air
conditioning needs by up to 50 percent. By reducing the energy demand for
cooling our houses, we reduce carbon dioxide and other pollution emissions from
power plants.
Trees save water
Shade from
trees slows water evaporation from thirsty lawns. Most newly planted trees need
only fifteen gallons of water a week. As trees transpire, they increase
atmospheric moisture.
Trees help prevent water pollution
Trees reduce
runoff by breaking rainfall thus allowing the water to flow down the trunk and
into the earth below the tree. This prevents stormwater from carrying
pollutants to the ocean. When mulched, trees act like a sponge that filters
this water naturally and uses it to recharge groundwater supplies.
Trees help prevent soil erosion
On hillsides or
stream slopes, trees slow runoff and hold soil in place.
Trees shield children from ultra-violet rays
Skin cancer is
the most common form of cancer in the United States. Trees reduce UV-B exposure
by about 50 percent, thus providing protection to children on school campuses
and playgrounds - where children spend hours outdoors.
Trees provide food
An apple tree
can yield up to 15-20 bushels of fruit per year and can be planted on the
tiniest urban lot. Aside from fruit for humans, trees provide food for birds
and wildlife.
Trees heal
Studies have
shown that patients with views of trees out their windows heal faster and with
less complications. Children with ADHD show fewer symptoms when they have
access to nature. Exposure to trees and nature aids concentration by reducing
mental fatigue.
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