Eassy 1. Importance of trees
Answers
Trees are one of the most important natural resources on earth. It is also a very important part of the ecosystem as many animals solely depend on trees for food and shelter. Trees also provide us with resources, some of which are very important for our survival. Historically, trees provided humans with firewood, which was crucial for cooking and warmth. Some of our earliest ancestors lived in forests where temperatures usually plummeted below freezing. In these situations, sticks, twigs and branches from trees meant the difference between life and death.
Even today, many places across India and other parts of the world do not have access to gas or electricity. Hence, these people still use firewood for cooking and other purposes.
Trees Importance
In today’s scenario, trees are being cut down to make way for human occupation. Large swaths of forests are being cleared every day, and animals are forced to give up their natural habitat as a result. However, this has a drastic repercussion on the health of the environment. Human activities have introduced large amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, and if the levels are unchecked for a long time, it can cause drastic repercussions to the environment.
Thankfully, trees can absorb the carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it within themselves. This process is called carbon sequestration and is vital for a cleaner environment. However, with the number of trees being cut down, this phenomenon may not be as effective. Hence, it is important that we do not cut down trees and promote afforestation.
Answer:
The canopies of trees act as a physical filter, trapping dust and absorbing pollutants from the air. Each individual tree removes up to 1.7 kilos every year. They also provide shade from solar radiation and reduce noise.
Over 20 species of British trees and shrubs are known to have medicinal properties. The oil from birch bark, for example, has antiseptic properties.
Research shows that within minutes of being surrounded by trees and green space, your blood pressure drops, your heart rate slows and your stress levels come down.
Trees benefit the environment
Trees absorb carbon dioxide as they grow and the carbon that they store in their wood helps slow the rate of global warming.
They reduce wind speeds and cool the air as they lose moisture and reflect heat upwards from their leaves. It’s estimated that trees can reduce the temperature in a city by up to 7°C.
Trees also help prevent flooding and soil erosion, absorbing thousands of litres of stormwater.
Trees boost wildlife
Trees host complex microhabitats. When young, they offer habitation and food to amazing communities of birds, insects, lichen and fungi. When ancient, their trunks also provide the hollow cover needed by species such as bats, woodboring beetles, tawny owls and woodpeckers.
One mature oak can be home to as many as 500 different species. Richmond Park is full of such trees, which is one of the reasons it has been designated a National Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest.
Trees strengthen communities
Trees strengthen the distinctive character of a place and encourage local pride. Urban woodland can be used as an educational resource and to bring groups together for activities like walking and bird-watching. Trees are also invaluable for children to play in and discover their sense of adventure.
Trees grow the economy
People are attracted to live, work and invest in green surroundings. Research shows that average house prices are 5-18% higher when properties are close to mature trees. Companies benefit from a healthier, happier workforce if there are parks and trees nearby.
Trees protect the future
Soon, for the first time in history, the number of people with homes in cities will outstrip those living in the countryside. Parks and trees will become an even more vital component of urban life. We must respect them and protect them for the future.