Health

What are the Health and Environmental Benefits of Trees?

Why They are So Important 

We pass them every day, and many of us have at least one in our garden. That’s right, we’re talking about trees. They add so much to the great outdoors, and along with looking beautiful, they also have a wide range of benefits. Here are just some of the ways that trees help us and the planet, making environmental tree work carried out by a trusted team one of the most important investments you can make for your outdoor space. 

They can slow down climate change

Climate change is the biggest danger facing our planet. Did you know that the trees in your garden can help to slow it down? Trees absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis and then lock it up for hundreds of years. Most of the carbon that a tree absorbs is stored in the leaves, and they then transfer it to the woodland soil when they fall and rot. This stops the CO₂ from being released into the atmosphere in such large amounts. 

They are home to a wide range of wildlife

Trees are home to everything from birds to bats, and that’s before you even look at the huge range of insects that live in them. You can add fungi to the list, too! The more trees there are, the greater the biodiversity of that area is. So if you want to protect your local wildlife, look to your trees before anything else. 

They improve our physical health

It’s no secret that a walk in the woods or just getting out in the garden is good for us. Why is that, though? Well, trees release oxygen into the atmosphere and filter pollutants, making the air we breathe much healthier. There is also growing evidence that trees release chemicals called phytoncides. It is thought that these strengthen our immune, hormonal, circulatory and nervous systems when we breathe them in. 

They can reduce pollution in town centres

Our town centres are becoming busier and more built up every year. Trees are becoming a really important part of town planning for all of the reasons that we just mentioned. They reduce pollutants in the air, which is vital in an area with a lot of cars. They also ensure that birds and animals can continue to live alongside us, even as towns grow bigger. 

They can help you save water

We’re all being told to save water where we can, especially during periods of dry weather. Did you know that trees can help with that? A garden with plenty of shade provided by trees needs a lot less water than one that is exposed to the sun all day long. This can also help to bring your water bill down, so that’s a benefit for your bank balance too! 

What to do next

It’s never been clearer that we need to do all that we can to protect trees. If you want some help getting started, contact a tree surgeon that specialises in environmental tree work today.