Why has Treecard made it our mission to plant more trees? 🌳
Here are just a few reasons:
1. Cleaner air 🌬
Air pollution is a problem in most of the world’s major cities — one that threatens people’s health and lives. Fortunately, trees can help by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.
According to the Arbor Day Foundation, one tree absorbs 48 pounds of carbon per year and can provide a day’s supply of oxygen for up to four people. 💚
2. Natural habitats for endangered animals 🐨
Whenever we think of a cute and cuddly koala, we can’t help but picture the devastating wildfires that have ravaged Australia in recent years.
Trees provide shelter, safety, and food to millions of species across the planet.
They are an integral part of many ecosystems and play a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity by providing wildlife habitat. As mass extinction accelerates, trees will be vital to any species hoping to survive.
3. Healthier soil 🌱
Dirt matters. Healthy soils store carbon and provide nutrients for plants and animals, and trees have a vital role to play in preventing soil degradation, erosion, and desertification.
For example, mangrove swamps have been proven to protect coastlines and maintain healthy habitats.
Trees pull toxic elements out of the soil and bring deep minerals to the surface, while decomposing leaves add nutrients to the soil.
4. Cooler cities 🏙
Have you ever noticed how asphalt radiates heat on a hot summer’s day? Urban trees provide shade, cooler air, and a place to get some relief from the heat.
Concrete and asphalt absorb heat and emit it back into the air, heating city streets. Trees cool the air by providing shade and releasing water vapor — kind of like a natural, outdoor air conditioning system.
5. Cleaner water 💧
Did you know that trees help keep our water clean, too? Stormwater filters through tree roots, which helps to eliminate harmful pollutants such as phosphorus and nitrogen, helping to prevent pollution in rivers and oceans.