Planting Trees Today Impacts the Climate of Tomorrow

CHAMPAIGN, IL- Have you ever imagined what the world would be like without trees? If the urban forest is not well cared for, future generations won't have to imagine cautions the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). Planting and maintaining trees is vital to preserving the urban forests in communities around the world.

Trees planted today will offer benefits for years to come including altering the environment in which we live. Improving air quality, moderating climate, and conserving water are prime examples of the paybacks the urban forest can provide.

Improvement of air quality is obtained through the filtering process of the leaves.

• Filtering removes dust and other particulates from the air
• Absorption of air pollutants such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide
• Renews the air supply by producing oxygen

  Climate Control is obtained by moderating the effects of sun, wind, and rain.

• Glare and Reflection Control
• Wind Break, Deflection, and Filtration
• Protection from downward fall of rain, sleet, and hail
• Cost reduction due to shade and shelter, reducing yearly heating and cooling cost.

  Water Conservation occurs due to the interception of water by trees.

• Reduction of storm run-off, erosion, and the possibility of flooding
• Improvement of water quality through purification by slowing and filtering rain water

  According to Jim Skiera, ISA Executive Director, "We often think of planting trees in a rural setting, overlooking that more than 80% of the population live in our cities, where additional trees can provide the greatest benefit." As communities grow, individuals need to consider what contributions they can make to improve the urbanized environment we live in.

  Skiera advises, "With a small investment individual homeowners can play a role in improving the effects of urbanization by planting and maintaining trees." It is never too late to reap the environmental benefits that trees can provide. To paraphrase a Chinese proverb- the best time to plant a tree was 25 years ago, the next best time is today.

Source: http://www.treesaregood.org/pressrelease/press/trees_climate.aspx

© International Society of Arboriculture 2005
P.O. Box 3129, Champaign, IL 61826