Planting deciduous trees to absorb CO2 and create better air is a great way to celebrate Arbor Day.
The last Friday in April is Arbor Day, a day to celebrate the importance of trees and planting them. Arbor comes from the Latin word meaning tree. There are over 73,000 different tree species on Earth, and 9,000 of these species are thought to be undiscovered.
Trees are incredibly important for our health and environment because they purify our air and help combat climate change. They protect us against floods and water pollution and help combat cities against the urban heat island effect. Trees also provide habitats to many wildlife species. Animals use trees for resting, nesting, and hunting or capturing prey. When the trees mature, animals are able to enjoy delicious fruits and foraging opportunities.
There are several threats affecting trees and causing a loss of trees in many areas. These threats include climate change, pollution, deforestation, forest degradation, urban development, and illegal activities in forestry. The planting of trees by organizations and communities is important to help mitigate these threats.
Generally, the trees that are planted are deciduous trees. Stemming from the Latin for “fall,” deciduous trees lose their leaves in the fall. These trees are adapted to the winter by going into a period of dormancy. Their leaves and flowers grow back during the spring and summer growing seasons. These trees are located in mid-latitude areas between polar regions and the tropics.
Deciduous trees and forests have a denser and more varied canopy and are important for wildlife. Many species depend on deciduous trees as their primary source of food and shelter. Birds, insects, and mammals all rely on deciduous trees for shelter, nesting sites, and food. Urban green spaces with a variety of trees help sustain ecosystems and promote the presence of diverse plant and animal species.
Deciduous trees also improve soil health by adding organic matter to the soil when their leaves fall. This can help retain moisture and nutrients in the soil, benefit future plant growth, and support a range of plants and insects. The root systems of deciduous trees help absorb and manage stormwater runoff, reducing the risk of flooding in urban areas.
Deciduous trees are favorable to plants because they grow fast and reach ecological maturity sooner. This means that they can absorb large amounts of carbon dioxide and convert it into biomass over a shorter timeframe. And while they lose their leaves in the fall, the sun can shine through the bare branches in the winter, providing warmth to the surrounding area.
Moreover, green spaces with deciduous trees offer residents and visitors a place for relaxation, recreation, and socialization. Access to nature within an urban setting has improved mental well-being and reduced stress. This natural shade provided by trees reduces the need for artificial cooling, such as air conditioning, leading to energy savings and a more comfortable outdoor environment.
The leaves and branches of deciduous trees can absorb and block sound, contributing to a quieter urban environment. This is especially beneficial in areas with high levels of traffic or other noise pollution.
The benefits of trees are evident; therefore, we must protect our existing forests and continue to create new ones. Here are a few ways you can celebrate Arbor Day:
- Plant a tree in your neighborhood.
- Read a book about trees and learn how to identify local trees.
- Visit a local park or take a nature hike.
- Volunteer with a tree-planting organization.
- Visit a botanical garden or greenhouse.
- Join the Arbor Day Foundation.
No matter how you celebrate Arbor Day and the various species of trees, you are helping to bring awareness to protecting and preserving our environment for future generations.
