7 Ways Trees Benefit the Environment
Ever since the beginning of the industrial revolution, the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere has increased by as much as 45%. Carbon dioxide can lead to a sudden surge in temperatures. Hence, the global warming effect. Trees help to take away some of that CO2 from the atmosphere by absorbing it. The following are other ways that trees can benefit the environment:
1. Keep the Soil Fertile
The top layer of soil is nutrient-rich because that is where most of the decomposition happens. Unfortunately, heavy rainfall and strong winds can take away those nutrients. When it rains and the ground is flat, the water will carry away the top layer of the soil and transport those nutrients somewhere else. In scientific terms, rains cause soil erosion.
Winds blow away the nutrients because there is nothing to stop it. Trees act as barriers to both rainwater and wind. They keep the top layer of the soil intact by absorbing most of the rainwater. Trees also act as windbreakers by stopping strong winds.
2. Protect the Ocean
Phytoplanktons are aquatic microorganisms that live on the surface of water bodies. They are mostly found in the oceans. The number of phytoplankton in the environment is in trillions. One thing that sets phytoplanktons apart from other aquatic microorganisms is their ability to absorb CO2.
The rise in CO2 levels in the atmosphere means that phytoplanktons have more CO2 to absorb. As a result, the acidity levels in oceans have increased, threatening that ecosystem. You can protect aquatic animals from the acidity by planting more trees. The trees will absorb the CO2 and take it away from the ocean.
3. Prevent Flooding
There have been more floods experienced in recent years due to global warming. Homes and natural habitats have been destroyed by heavy rains. Trees help to control the water flow.
Trees need water to grow. When you have multiple trees near your home, you minimize the flooding risk. That’s because your trees will absorb most of the water.
4. Protect Wildlife
Despite their thick fur, animals feel cold and hot as much humans do. When you plant trees, you provide shelter for animals. Your dog or cat can shelter under the tree to protect themselves from the sun when it is hot. Trees also protect animals from the cold by acting as windbreakers.
If you keep poultry, planting trees will encourage the birds to move around more. Free-range animals need that freedom to live well. Better quality of life leads to more egg production.
Trees also provide a home for wildlife. Don’t be surprised to find squirrels in your backyard. They’re all part of the ecosystem.
5. Better Air
You need oxygen to survive and perform your daily chores. Interestingly, trees are a source of oxygen. Trees help to improve the air quality around you by removing impurities and absorbing CO2 before releasing oxygen. Hence the reason you should plant trees around your home so that you can enjoy better air quality.
6. Source of Food
Apart from providing shade, trees can also supply you with food. Most fruits come from trees. For example, the mango tree produces mangoes, which are a great source of vitamin C, A, and B6. Apples, papaya, oranges, and many more fruits all come from trees.
Trees can also provide nutrients for your crops if you have a farm. When the leaves fall off and decompose, they act as a natural fertilizer. Trees also trap water in the soil. That means, your plants will get underground moisture in case of a drought.
7. Aesthetic Appeal
Trees make the environment look more appealing. It’s just calming to sit around trees. You feel at peace and can relax your mind.
Tree care helps to protect the trees and keep them intact. You should make the conscious decision to support tree planting efforts because they help to conserve the environment. Also, you want to leave a world that future generations will enjoy.