It’s clear that trees provide amazing benefits for people, wildlife and the environment. Trees are the lungs of the planet, the harbour for our wildlife, and can make a real difference in solving the Climate Emergency.

Let's look at just 5 key reasons why North Devon needs more trees:

1) So we can breathe!

Humans and wildlife could not exist if there were no trees. Trees remove excess carbon dioxide (CO2) from our atmosphere and convert it into oxygen via a process called photosynthesis. As well as producing oxygen they also help to clean the air by absorbing harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide and nitrogen dioxide.

2) To combat climate change

Devon County Council has announced a climate emergency. Increasing levels of carbon dioxide in our atmosphere creates a ‘greenhouse effect’ where CO2 traps heat from the sun, causing a warmer climate. If we plant more trees then more carbon dioxide will be removed from the atmosphere. The trees become ‘Carbon Sinks’ a term which means the tree ‘stores’ carbon as wood instead of releasing it into the atmosphere.

3) To provide for wildlife

From lichens living on the bark and small mammals making homes in their root systems to birds nesting in their canopies and bats roosting in their trunks; trees are a biodiversity fortress. Oak trees, one of the UK’s best known species, have been found to support over 280 species of insects, which in turn provide food for many birds.

4) For shelter and shade

Trees provide shade and shelter for both humans and animals. As farmers know, trees help to shelter their livestock and crops from the British weather; rain, wind or sunshine, or sometimes all three at once! Likewise, with trees standing between your home and the elements, trees help your home to conserve energy by providing shade from the hot summer sun and shelter from cold winter winds.

5) To prevent flooding

Trees intercept rainwater on their leaves which slows down the speed that water enters the ground. The root system also provides the added benefit of preventing soil erosion and protecting our rivers and streams from harmful pollution in run-off.

Interested in planting a tree or joining a tree planting event? Visit the Pledge for Nature page to find out what your community is up to and to find out about Free Trees!

Share your tree planting picture with us on social media @pledgefornature #pledgefornature

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