Trees offer many benefits. They:
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
See also
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.