Benefits of Trees
The Public Good
Each year, 100 mature trees:
- catch 77,000 gallons of rainwater
- remove 1.2 tons of carbon dioxide (thought to be a cause of global warming)
- remove 130 pounds of pollutants
Trees reduce the amount of pollutants in sewer systems, saving communities millions of dollars in water treatment costs.
Trees cool our cities by reducing heat generated by building and paved surfaces.
Homeowners and Businesses
Trees in residential neighborhoods:
- save homeowners 20% on annual cooling costs and 2-10% on heating costs
- increase property values by 10 to 15%
- Trees in shopping districts influence people to make longer and more frequent shopping trips
- spend 12% more for goods
Trees soften harsh building lines and large expanses of pavement, making urban environments more pleasant.
Trees shade cars in parking lots, making the shaded parking spot in front of a store the most desirable in the lot!
Health and Safety
Trees help purify the air by absorbing pollutants
Trees reduce the amount of water-borne pollutants that reach streams and rivers.
Trees provide habitat for birds and other wildlife, maintaining a balance with nature even in urban areas.
Trees speed healing and nurture more positive attitudes in hospital patients who can see trees from their rooms.
Trees reduce levels of domestic violence and foster safer, more sociable neighborhood environments.