When we talk about the benefits of trees, we often discuss the importance of how trees absorb and filter excess stormwater runoff. However, trees are equally critical when thinking about how they combat climate change and air pollution. Trees are an essential tool for filtering air pollutants, reducing industrial odors, and cooling down overheated city streets.
Air pollution is a common problem. New Jersey is considered an urban state, even in less developed areas such as the Pinelands. As a result, air quality and overheated cities are a concern. Heavy car traffic, industry, and development all contribute to air pollution and increased temperatures. Dirty, smelly air leads to unhealthy communities and breathing problems for residents. In addition, roads, parking lots, and buildings absorb heat, increasing the temperature of cities. This is what is known as the “urban heat island effect” and it means that cities have a higher average temperature than suburban and rural areas. It isn’t hard to imagine standing outside on a sizzling city street, with no shade in sight!
Newly planted trees line a street in South Camden. Photo credit: NJ Tree Foundation.
Trees are an incredible tool for cooling down overheated cities and reducing the impact of air pollution. Just as trees use their roots to catch water, the leaves on a tree absorb sunlight and air particulates. The leaves use a process called photosynthesis to create food for the tree and release oxygen. Their leaves filter out contaminants and odors, and release clean, fresh air. Most importantly, the tree takes in carbon dioxide, which contributes to the urban heat island effect and climate change. A large shade tree in front of your home will reduce the need to run the air conditioner or fans, minimizing your home energy costs. Planting trees along city streets and in parks is a critical first step to combat the overheating of our urban communities.
Still not convinced? You can calculate the benefits of your trees using a tool called i-Tree. Developed by the US Forest Service, Davey Tree Experts Company, and the Arbor Day Foundation, i-tree is a free software program that will show you the impact of trees on your property. By providing a few basic details about your tree, you can estimate the amount of air pollution removed per year by your trees. Pollutants calculated include particulate matter, nitrogen, and sulfur. You can also estimate the cost savings of carbon absorbed over the lifetime of your tree. Below is an example of a tree (American hornbeam) planted last year in Camden. Look how much air pollution, carbon,dioxide and stormwater the tree can remove in one year!
I-tree results from a tree planted in Camden last year. Photo source: i-treetools.org
Trees are a beautiful and sustainable way to cool down overheated streets and absorb air pollution. Trees not only contain carbon, they filter out air particulates and reduce industrial odors. Trees are the solution to the (air) pollution!