Why Are Trees Important

Trees are the largest single source of breathable oxygen in the atmosphere. They clean the air by intercepting airborne particles and can also absorb sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide that we produce from our cars and homes.

A single mature tree can absorb carbon dioxide at a rate of 48lbs/yr and release enough oxygen to support a family of four.

Trees can increase your property value by 15% or more.

Trees can reduce heat and lower your home energy bill by 30%.

Trees are a major source of food and medicine:

• Food: apples, oranges, lemon, fig, plum, most nuts (almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts, pecans…)
• Oils
• Maple syrup
• Medicine: active ingredients in cough syrup, laxatives, tranquilizers and pain relievers (aspirin is synthesized from willow bark). Scientists are also learning that some trees produce components that help in fighting cancer.

Trees clean the soil through a process called phytoremediation: absorption of dangerous chemicals and other pollutants that have entered the soil.

Tree roots fight soil erosion by stabilizing the soil.

Trees are a valuable renewable resource – there are more than 5,000 products made from trees, including furniture, paper, toothpaste, shoe polish, etc.

Trees reduce noise pollution in urban areas and act as a wind break.

Trees are, of course, aesthetically beautiful to look at and can act as a stress reducer.

Trees create ‘carbon sinks’ when large groups of trees in the forest absorb carbon dioxide in the wood leaves and roots, it produces a carbon “sink” which greatly improves our atmosphere.

Trees can enhance your community’s economic stability by attracting businesses and tourists.