Planting Trees: how to improve the quality of life?

Thanks to the process of chlorophyll photosynthesis, which enables plants to produce the energy they need for their lives, plants absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. In this way, they counteract the accumulation of this 'greenhouse gas' in the atmosphere and, consequently, progressive global warming. It has been estimated that the forests currently present on our planet are able to absorb around 2.6 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide in one year, which corresponds to about one third of the CO2 produced by burning fossil fuels. A mature tree absorbs about 22kg of CO2 each year and releases enough oxygen into the atmosphere for the needs of two adult people.

Numerous studies confirm that spending time in nature, even just for a walk in a green area in the city, is positively correlated with a decrease in depression and anxiety. Outdoor activity in nature contributes to an improved physical condition, combats sedentariness, lowers blood pressure and strengthens the immune system. Not only that, however. Trees make communities more liveable. If well maintained, they are associated with an improvement in the social and ecological capital of a community. There also seems to be a reduction in domestic violence and aggression and a reduction in crime in neighbourhoods under these environmental conditions.

The air we breathe near trees is actually cleaner. In fact, they are able to absorb polluting gases such as nitrogen oxide, ammonia and sulphur dioxide. The leaves, moreover, are a natural particulate filter. It is estimated that in the US, trees in urban settings can remove more than 711,000 metric tonnes of air pollutants each year, and that the more mature a tree is, the greater its ability to accumulate particulate matter. https://nph.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ppp3.39

Trees and forests are important elements of biodiversity. They are both a source of food and natural habitats for many animal species. This creates valuable ecosystems, where each element is in perfect balance. 50% of plants and animals live in rainforests, but there are many endangered species. This is also linked to the progressive deforestation and destruction of natural habitats. They are a source of biodiversity and home to many animals.

Out-of-control urbanisation and uncontrolled building are only raising the average temperature of our cities. The mere presence of plants allows a drop of up to 12°C by providing shaded areas and releasing water. This is not an effect to be underestimated. In fact, it seems that even just three trees planted around the house in strategic locations can significantly reduce the need for air conditioning in the warmer months. Natural air conditioning and street cooling

Trees are a natural barrier against water and wind. They are important resources for counteracting floods and landslides because they stabilise the soil and absorb water, about 1500 litres of water per year per mature tree. In addition, their roots protect the soil from the effect of wind and erosion. This, combined with the fact that they increase soil fertility, makes them also important partners for the agricultural sector. Trees therefore actively contribute to improving our life on this planet. They help combat climate change, make the air and water cleaner, protect biodiversity and make our cities more liveable. The quality of our lives changes radically if we can be in contact with nature and trees. The presence of trees and plants, especially if they are nectariferous, is also very important for pollinating insects, which derive their nourishment from there.