The leaves in canopies of trees act as a physical filter, trapping dust and absorbing pollution from the air. Each individual tree removes up to approximately 1.7 kilos every year. They also provide shade from solar radiation and act as a sound barrier by reducing noise pollution.

  Over 20 species of British trees and shrubs are known to have medicinal properties, from stomach complaints, to sleep aids to disinfectants and pain relievers.

  Research shows that  being surrounded by trees in a green space, one very quickly experiences blood pressure dropping, heart rate slowing and stress levels reducing.

  Global warming is heavily linked to increasing levels of carbon dioxide (CO2). When CO2 builds up in the atmosphere it creates a ‘greenhouse effect’, where CO2 traps heat from the sun, creating a warmer climate. The earth has always experienced natural cycles of climate change, but it is now known from geological records that increasing CO2 levels are the biggest influence. The main driver for increasing CO2 is human activity. As trees effectively remove excess CO2 from the atmosphere there has never been a more important time to plant more and protect what we have. Trees absorb CO2 as they grow and the carbon that they store in their wood helps slow the rate of global warming.

  Trees reduce wind speeds and cool the air as they lose moisture and reflect heat upwards from their leaves. It’s estimated that trees can reduce the temperature in a city by up to 7°C.

Trees boost wildlife. Trees host complex microhabitats. When young, they offer habitation and food to amazing communities of birds, insects, lichen and fungi. When ancient, their trunks also provide the hollow cover needed by species such as bats, woodboring beetles, tawny owls and woodpeckers.  One mature oak can be home to as many as 500 different species. Richmond Park is full of such trees, which is one of the reasons it has been designated a National Nature Reserve and Site of Special Scientific Interest.

  Trees strengthen the distinctive character of a place and encourage local pride. Urban woodland can be used as an educational resource and to bring groups together for activities like walking and bird-watching. Trees are also invaluable for children to play in and discover their sense of adventure.

  People are attracted to live, work and invest in green surroundings. Research shows that average house prices are 5-18% higher when properties are close to mature trees. Companies benefit from a healthier, happier workforce if there are parks and trees nearby.

  Soon, for the first time in history, the number of people with homes in cities will outstrip those living in the countryside. Parks and trees will become an even more vital component of urban life. We must respect them and protect them for the future.

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