We often talk about how important trees are, and the benefits they provide to us. Everyone knows how important they are to filtering the air and providing oxygen, as well as the wood and fruits often provided. Even so, we still tend to undersell just how much they do for us and our environment. Here are the seven biggest ways trees matter that are often overlooked.
7. Trees can lower bills around the house – When planted in close proximity to a home, they can reduce heating bills by 10%-15% in the winter by buffering cold breezes. On the other hand, in the summer, the shade they can provide can reduce the need for air conditioning, lowering electric bills up to 40%. Over the long run, this can make planting trees a wise investment for a homeowner.
6. Trees and their roots help with groundwater – The branches and leaves of trees help to break up the falling rain, preventing soil erosion that can come from concentrated rain. Meanwhile, the roots help to stabilize the soil and keep it together, making trees some of the best objects in regards to taming rainfall and holding groundwater.
5. Trees reduce UV radiation – The branches and leaves of trees help to diffuse the ultraviolet radiation from the sun, meaning that those who play in the shade are better protected from these cancerous rays.
4. Trees help create natural privacy – All trees help to break up the views of those outside of a property, but evergreens do an extremely efficient job. With year-round foliage that tends to be thick and bushy, evergreen trees are just as effective as blinds at protecting the privacy inside a home.
3. Trees have been demonstrated to decrease stress levels – Studies indicate that having trees can help to bring down the levels of stress experienced by those who live in the area. These studies have noted lowered blood pressure and muscle tension amongst residents in areas with more trees.
2. Trees increase the value of a home – Studies have indicated that the values of properties on tree-lined streets, when compared with otherwise equal properties on treeless streets, will be a bit higher. This is due to the fact that trees create a more welcoming view and provide privacy.
1. Trees improve the cohesiveness of a neighborhood – Residents in a tree-filled neighborhood spend more time outside, meaning they are more invested in their neighborhood and are more likely to interact with their neighbors. This leads to the neighborhood having more of a sense of community.
