Why Trees?
By: Oria Aponte

For millions of years, there have been plants and trees on Earth. They are the most significant and underappreciated component of the environment. People have grown numb to trees and plants, and do not entirely appreciate their power because they have been around all of our lives. Plants and trees have a significant positive impact on the environment, human health, and community.

The lungs of the Earth are said to be trees and plants. Through their leaves, trees capture toxins and enhance air quality. Additionally, they produce oxygen through photosynthesis and can have a direct impact on the climate and humidity levels thanks to transpiration. In the US alone, better management of trees, plants, and soil could store the same amount of carbon as removing 57 million cars from the road. This would make the gases that are affecting our atmosphere and contributing to global warming, come to a halt. Furthermore, trees and plants offer food and shelter to various species, including birds, koalas, squirrels, and many others, which benefits ecology. 

Plants and trees are beneficial to human health. Research shows that spending time in natural environments like parks, forests, and gardens can help people feel relaxed, reducing stress levels. Currently, the world is very concerned about stress, especially as it relates to hypertension, heart attacks, and strokes, thus nature can assist with preventative treatment.

Trees and plants are significant elements of communities. A community's sense of accomplishment and responsibility can be improved by trees. Participating actively in tree-planting initiatives strengthens sense of community and encourages environmental ethics and responsibility. Planting initiatives also serve as an outward manifestation of change and serve as a catalyst for other community renewal and action initiatives.

How, therefore, can we ensure that both trees and plants continue to function as intended? To preserve our greenery, one could practice sustainability. You may practice sustainability in many ways, like cutting out waste, driving less or using public transportation, shopping from more environmentally friendly products, and more!

Resources: 

Plant a Billion Trees: The Nature Conservancy

Why Trees? One Tree Planted