With summer upon us, the sweet respite of a shade tree can bring instant comfort and protect us from the harmful effects of UV rays. Statistics indicate that one in five Americans is likely to develop skin cancer. Knowing that a shade tree can reduce UV-B exposure by about 50%, one could make the case that a tree’s protection from the sun is a lifesaving characteristic of trees.
But, this is just one of the many benefits we gain from our leaf bearing friends. Not only are trees nature’s sunscreen, trees do so much for us. They feed us, they allow us to conserve energy, combat temperature increases from city streets, and they can even raise our property values.
Take a look at some of the things trees do for us.
• Millions around the world depend on the life giving sustenance provided by fruit trees.
Everything from apples and cherries to bananas and coconuts come from fruit bearing trees.
• A few strategically placed trees around a single-family home can cut air-conditioning need down by 50%.
• Trees are nature’s filter. In one year, an acre of mature trees absorbs the same amount of CO2 produced from driving your car 26,000 miles.
• Trees heal. Studies show that patients heal faster and with less complications when they have views of trees. Further, exposure to trees and nature aids concentration by reducing mental fatigue and burn out.
• Trees cool our cities. A city filled with trees can be ten degrees cooler by providing shade homes, buildings, streets, and other features of these concrete jungles.
• Undoubtedly the beauty of a neighborhood and home is enhanced by a well-planted trees. The added beauty can raise property values by up to 15%!
There are so many reasons to take care of our trees. Call an Arborist today to see what more you can do to make sure your trees continue to flourish and provide all the wonderful benefits to you and yours.