Trees are nature’s multi-tool!
They’re good for the land, for nature, the climate, communities, and the soul. Trees truly make the world a better place. Let’s take a look at what trees can do for us all!
1.
Providing habitats and food for wildlife
Trees provide essential homes for countless species like moths, birds, bats, dormice, butterflies, and fungi. In fact, forests house about 80% of the world’s terrestrial biodiversity! In England, 53% of woodland wildlife species are declining. By protecting and planting more trees, we can help reverse this trend and help rebuild our diverse ecosystems.

2.
Combating climate change
Trees absorb carbon dioxide through photosynthesis, storing it in their leaves and the surrounding soil. Trees also play a role in water management by absorbing rainwater and reducing runoff, which helps prevent flooding and erosion.

3.
Greening Urban Spaces
In cities, trees can cut pollution by up to 50%, offering a simple solution for urban areas with health issues from poor air quality. Their canopies provide shade, cooling the air during hot periods and providing shelter from the rain. Plus, they reduce noise pollution by acting as natural sound barriers. Simply said, they make cities more liveable, attractive, and healthier, contributing to safer communities with lower crime rates.

4.
Improving our mental health and wellbeing
Trees offer countless benefits including reducing stress, anxiety, and depression. They enhance our mood, boost immune function, and improve our cognitive skills. Schools with more trees have been found to experience better student performance and behaviour. Outdoor activities among trees promote health and resilience: proximity to trees even speeds up recovery from illness!

5.
Producing food sustainably
Trees can food production by providing livestock with shelter helping them stay health and happy, by protecting crops from wind, and by reducing soil erosion. They enhance soil fertility and their blossoms attract insects that are essential for crop pollination. Agroforestry practices, where trees and crops or livestock are combined, can reduce the use of agrochemicals, contributing to resilient farming systems and healthy natural ecosystems.

6.
Reducing flood risk and improving water quality
Increasingly intense rainfall has raised the risk of costly and distressing flooding in our region. Trees can help! Their deep roots allow water to soak deeper into the ground, reducing surface water, slowing runoff into our waterways and filtering out pollutants. This not only lessens flood risk but also improves our water quality!

7.
Providing sustainable employment and recreational opportunities
Trees and woodlands boosts employment for skilled workers in planting, maintaining, and monitoring tree health. Additionally, trees enhance recreational spaces like parks and trails, attracting visitors and promoting tourism. This, in turn, supports local businesses such as cafes, shops, and outdoor activity providers, fostering a vibrant community and offering more opportunities for everyone to enjoy nature.

8.
Producing sustainable local timber and wood products
Well managed, diverse native woodlands can provide a continuous supply of timber for construction, furniture, and crafts. This reduces the need for imports, supporting our local economy and reducing the carbon footprint of these products. Sustainable forestry practices also help protect ecosystems, ensuring that our woodlands remain healthy and productive for future generations.

Partners
Delivering the Forest of Avon Plan Together

Follow us and get involved
Join Our Community
Sign up for our newsletter to receive the latest opportunities for tree planting grants and volunteering events