Why urban areas need more trees
In recent decades, urban trees have been under increasing threat. We are at risk of losing this integral part of our cities and towns. We need trees now more than ever, as 84% of UK residents now live in urban areas.
- Oxygen is produced
Some have said that we would plant trees in our cities if they produced free WiFi. They do produce oxygen, which is essential to our survival on this planet.
How trees help store carbon
One mature leafy plant can produce enough air for 10 people to breathe in a season. It is especially important in heavily populated and highly polluted cities where the average oxygen level will be at least 6 percent lower. For Semi Mature Trees, visit Nature First
- Carbon sequestration and storage
Trees play a key role in what is called carbon sinks. It is the storage of carbon in the carbon cycle. This is a key part of mitigating the effects of climate changes.
Cleaner air in polluted cities
A mature tree can absorb as much as 48 pounds of CO2 in a year. Globally, it is believed that our forests can absorb up to 40% of CO2 emissions from humans before they reach our outer atmosphere and trap even more heat.
- Air pollution management is supported b
In the right conditions, trees and vegetation can reduce pollutants by as much as half.
- Support urban flood risk management
One mature leafy tree, which can also capture rainwater from its leaves, can absorb up to 45 litres of liquid water per day through its roots. Their roots reduce soil erosion and water filtration into drainage systems.
Reducing the risk of urban flooding
It is especially important in cities, where the majority of the surface of the ground is impermeable material like tarmac or concrete. If there is nowhere for the water to go, a sudden rain can cause flash floods. Trees can be a lifesaver!
Summary
Explains why urban trees matter more than ever, with 84% of UK residents now living in towns and cities: producing oxygen, acting as carbon sinks that absorb CO2 from the atmosphere, cutting air pollution by up to half in the right conditions, and reducing flash flood risk in built-up areas where tarmac and concrete leave rainwater nowhere to drain away.
Questions this article raises
- How many trees would a typical city need to plant to make a measurable difference?
- How much carbon can urban trees realistically offset compared with rural forests?
- What tree species work best for flood risk management in cities?
