The Benefits of Trees

As a homeowner, did trees factor into your purchase decision? In a study conducted by Arbor National Mortgage and American Forests, 83% of realtors believe that mature trees have a ‘strong or moderate impact’ on the salability of homes listed for under $150,000; on homes over $250,000, this perception increases to 98%. If you’re considering taking a mature tree down for any reason other than damage or disease, these are some pretty big numbers to keep in mind if you’re planning to sell your home.

Still thinking about taking a mature tree down? Here are six of the top 22 best reasons to plant and care for trees or defend a tree’s standing:

Trees combat climate change

Excess carbon dioxide (CO2) caused by many factors is a building up in our atmosphere and contributing to climate change. Trees absorb CO2, removing and storing the carbon while releasing the oxygen back into the air. In one year, an acre of mature trees absorbs the amount of CO2 produced when you drive your car 26,000 miles.

Trees conserve energy

Three trees placed strategically around a single-family home can cut summer air conditioning needs by up to 50 percent. By reducing the energy demand for cooling our houses, we reduce carbon dioxide and other pollution emissions from power plants.

Trees shield children from ultra-violet rays

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Trees reduce UV-B exposure by about 50 percent, thus providing protection to children on school campuses and playgrounds – where children spend hours outdoors.

Trees create economic opportunities

Fruit harvested from community orchards can be sold, thus providing income. Small business opportunities in green waste management and landscaping arise when cities value mulching and its water-saving qualities. Vocational training for youth interested in green jobs is also a great way to develop economic opportunities from trees.

Trees block things

Trees can mask concrete walls or parking lots, and unsightly views. They muffle sound from nearby streets and freeways, and create an eye-soothing canopy of green. Trees absorb dust and wind and reduce glare.

Trees increase property values

The beauty of a well-planted property and its surrounding street and neighborhood can raise property values by as much as 15 percent.

This piece was reposted in part with permission from TreePeople, an LA-based nonprofit organization that works at the grassroots and policy levels to create a climate-ready region. Over their 43-year history, TreePeople has engaged more than 2 million people to plant more than 2 million trees — one neighborhood, one street, one tree at a time. Together with the partnership of Angelenos and government, TreePeople’s mission is to create a healthier, shaded and water-secure Los Angeles. Find out more at treepeople.org.