AIR

Trees help purify the air we breathe. Through their leaves and bark, they absorb harmful pollutants and release clean oxygen. In urban environments, trees absorb polluting gases such as nitrogen oxides, ozone, and carbon monoxide, and sweep up particles like dust and smoke. Increasing levels of carbon dioxide caused by deforestation and the burning of fossil fuels create heat in the atmosphere. Healthy, strong trees act as carbon sinks, removing carbon from the atmosphere and reducing the effects of climate change.

WATER

WATER

Trees play a key role in capturing rainwater and reducing the risk of natural disasters such as floods and landslides. Their intricate root systems act as filters, removing pollutants and slowing the absorption of water into the soil. This process prevents harmful water slide erosion and reduces the risk of waterlogging and flooding. According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organization, a mature evergreen tree can capture more than 15,000 liters of water each year.

BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY

A single tree can be home to hundreds of species of insects, fungi, mosses, mammals and plants. Depending on the type of food and shelter they need, different forest animals require different types of habitat. Without trees, the forest animals would have no place to call home. Our planet is losing an estimated 137 species of plants, animals and insects every day due to deforestation, according to the World Animal Foundation.

BIOLOGICAL DIVERSITY

WORK

WORK

From arborists to loggers and scientists, the job opportunities offered by the forestry industry are endless. However, we do not only depend on trees for work. Sustainable tree farming provides timber to build homes, wood to burn for cooking and heating. Food-producing trees provide fruit, nuts, berries and leaves for consumption by both humans and animals, with a natural nutritional power.

HEALTH

Did you know that hospital patients with rooms overlooking trees recover faster than those without the same view? It's impossible to ignore that feeling of elation you get while walking through a calm, quiet forest. Trees help reduce stress and anxiety, and allow us to reconnect with nature. In addition, shade provided by tree cover helps protect our skin from the increasingly harsh sun.

HEALTH

CLIMATE

CLIMATE

Trees help cool the planet by storing harmful greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide in their trunks, branches and leaves – and releasing oxygen back into the atmosphere. In cities, trees can reduce the ambient temperature by up to 8° Celsius. With more than 50% of the world's population living in cities – a number expected to rise to 66% by the year 2050 – pollution and overheating are becoming real threats. Fortunately, a mature tree can absorb an average of approx. 10 kg of carbon dioxide per year. Planting trees makes the planet a healthier and safer place to live.