This National Tree Day season invites communities across Canada and the United States to reflect on the enduring value of trees. Here are 10 reasons why trees are cherished and worth celebrating.
- They provide oxygen, a vital lifeline for all living beings. A mature tree can produce as much oxygen in a single season as ten people breathe in an entire year, a testament to the quiet power of nature’s green guardians.
- Trees purify the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen through photosynthesis. In urban areas, this natural cleansing helps offset pollution and creates a healthier breathing environment for city dwellers.
- Trees bring peace and quiet to busy neighborhoods. Their canopies dampen noise, soften urban soundscapes, and offer a respite from the constant hum of streets and transit.
- Trees are homes for a variety of wildlife. Birds, mammals, insects, and other creatures find shelter, food, and nesting sites in trees, inviting a richer sense of nature into city life.
- Trees help cut energy costs. In hot summers, shade from trees lowers the need for cooling, while in winter they act as windbreaks, reducing heat loss. Their clean air also lessens the need for purifiers indoors.
- Trees keep water cleaner. By filtering pollutants and stabilizing soils, trees reduce runoff and protect water supplies, contributing to healthier rivers, lakes, and groundwater.
- Trees are a long term investment. They can live for centuries and even reach towering heights. Growth rings reveal age and history, offering a living record of time and climate.
- Trees offer protection from the elements. They shelter from rain, hail, and wind, while their canopy slows water flow, helping reduce flood risk in vulnerable areas.
- Trees are among the oldest living organisms, with thousands of species spanning the globe. There are more than 23,000 distinct tree species worldwide, each contributing unique beauty and value.
- Trees boost mood and well being. The presence of trees and greenery can lift spirits, reduce stress, and even aid recovery in clinical settings by providing a calming, restorative view.
People can celebrate National Tree Day by taking part in the many events happening nationwide. Just click here to find the event closest to you.