The Value of Trees

On a hot summer day, sitting under a tree, there is something almost hypnotic about the way the leafy shade moves ever so subtly around us. It calms, cools and soothes. In those moments we feel – we know – the value of trees.

Each year it seems there is more information showing that the benefits of trees go well beyond the aesthetic and comfort values most of us recognize.

Clean air. Trees clean the air by trapping dust particles on the surface of their leaves and twigs. One study found that tree lined streets were up to 100 times less dusty than those without trees.

Peace & Quiet. Trees reduce noise by absorbing sound waves and by increasing local humidity (which also helps reduce noise levels).

Reduced run-off. Trees reduce run-off rates from property by catching rain, slowing its progress to the ground, thus allowing more time for the water to soak into the ground. A US Forest Service study found that trees can reduce run-off in urban areas by up to 17 percent.

Good health. Spending time just looking at trees can literally lower your heart rate and reduce your blood pressure. A study at a Pennsylvania hospital found that patients who had views of areas landscaped with trees required less pain medication and recovered faster than those whose rooms overlooked areas without landscaping outside.

Temperature control. Our urban and suburban areas often result in what is called a “heat island” – an area that is hotter and dryer than surrounding undeveloped areas. Trees moderate temperatures by providing a windbreak in winter, and offering their shade in the summer. Properly placed trees can save 20-25 percent on a home’s energy use. Nationally, it is estimated that up to 10% of the electricity used is just to compensate for the “heat island” effect. That translates into about $1 million an hour nationwide.

Greenhouse gas absorption. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, the leading culprit in global warming. Scientists say that there are three ways to reduce carbon dioxide: improving auto emissions, improving our electrical supply system, and planting trees. It takes about 20 trees to absorb the carbon dioxide released by one car in a year.

Increased property values. Studies across the United States show that well placed trees increase property values for residential and commercial developments by as much as 15 percent. Homesites with trees tend to sell faster than those without. This is especially true in new developments that save existing trees rather than clearing the site and planting small parkway trees.

A place to call home. Trees provide habitat for a wide diversity of creatures. Birds, squirrels, raccoons, frogs, and a wide variety of insects make their homes in trees.

So, before you curse the neighborhood trees as you rake your leaves next fall, stop and consider all they do for you. Trees are working for us all day, every day of the year, rain or shine. So what if trees are a little messy sometimes? Besides, we all need the exercise.

Web resources:
If you are interested in learning more about trees and the benefits the provide, check out these web sites:

http://www.americanforests.org/ for American Forests. They work to protect, restore and enhance the natural capital of trees and forests.

http://www.arborday.org/ for The National Arbor Day Foundation. They inspire people to plant, nurture and celebrate trees.