Trees

Understand the ecological significance of trees, their role in carbon capture, and their contributions to biodiversity and environmental health.

In botany, a tree is a perennial plant with an elongated stem, or trunk, usually supporting branches and leaves. In some usages, the definition of a tree may be narrower, including only woody plants with secondary growth, plants that are usable as lumber or plants above a specified height

• combat climate change

Tree planting is one of the simplest and most effective ways of tackling climate change caused by greenhouse gas. As trees grow they absorb carbon dioxide (CO2), a major greenhouse gas in the atmosphere.

• clean the air
• provide oxygen
• cool the streets and the city - see heat island
• conserve energy
• save water
• help prevent water pollution
• help prevent soil erosion
• shield children from ultra-violet rays
• provide food - see fruit trees; some trees also have edible leaves.
• provide an environment that improves mental well-being
• reduce violence^{[verification needed]} - perhaps by providing a calming and pleasant environment that encourages people to spend time outside.
• increase business traffic - through creating an environment where people want to spend time
• mark the seasons
• create economic opportunities - through their fruit, leaves for mulch...
• bring people together, for tree-plantings and for tree care
• encourage civic pride
• provide a canopy and habitat for wildlife
• block unsightly views and muffle sound
• provide wood
• increase property values
• self-replicate

Trees that provide food

Timber trees

Notes

The basic ideas here come from Top 22 Benefits of Trees, www.treepeople.org but references are not given for the claims made - these could be given here, or in the articles linked from each point.