Our Planet's Lungs

Metaphorically, trees are like the lungs of the planet. They breathe in carbon dioxide and breathe out oxygen.

Quick Facts

· As few as three trees properly positioned can save the average household between $100 and $250 annually in energy costs.

· Fifty million shade trees planted in strategic, energy-saving locations could eliminate the need for seven 100-megawatt power plants.

· Shade from two large trees on the west side of a house and one on the east side can save up to 30% of a typical residence's annual air conditioning costs.

· Trees reduce noise pollution by absorbing sounds. A belt of trees 98 feet wide and 49 feet tall can reduce highway noise by 6 to 10 decibels.

· Trees in Davis, California, parking lots reduced asphalt temperatures by as much as 36 degrees Fahrenheit, and car interior temperatures by over 47 degrees Fahrenheit.

· Philadelphia's 2.1 million trees currently store approximately 481,000 metric tons of carbon with an estimated value of $9.8 million.

· A typical community forest of 10,000 trees will retain approximately 10 million gallons of rainwater per year.