The recent past is marred by a global outcry by environment enthusiasts that at all costs, forest cover must increase. Through United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), every state that signed the Paris Agreement was given a target to achieve in terms of its forest cover by 2030. Accordingly, Kenya is part of the countries that have shown great slides in complying with this call. It has been on the run to achieve at least 10% forest cover by 2030.
But wait a minute. Why is it important for member states to hid this clarion call? Why forest cover? And why trees? Could these be some of the questions lingering on your mind? Your questions and the thirst to comprehend all these will be answered and quenched, hopefully.
To begin with, here are two important steps suggested for you to follow in contributing to this global goal, in your little way. You might not know how much by so doing you join the teams out there causing significant impacts in tree growing, just like Miti Alliance.
Firstly, as much as possible, plant a tree. You will be amazed by how much one tree can do in restoring Mother Nature to its original state before she strikes back maximally. It will be absurd for you to forfeit this golden opportunity to save posterity when you have the space and ability to do so.
Secondly, if you cannot plant a tree, please do not allow the destruction of an already existent tree or forest cover either by you or anyone in your presence. Increasing forest cover begins by first preserving the forests that already are, in anticipation for those that are yet to be. You could also become an ambassador of conservation, and this is a great thing to do.
Basic Benefits of Trees/Forests that will Catch Your Eye
Source of oxygen
During the process of photosynthesis, trees release oxygen as a by-product, alongside food. Research has confirmed that one mature tree can produce oxygen sufficient enough to sustain four humans. 20 million more trees can produce up to 260 million more tonnes of oxygen annually into the atmosphere. It is this oxygen that sustains human life on the planet.
Reducing Excess Carbon dioxide From the atmosphere
Trees take in carbon dioxide from the atmosphere during the process of photosynthesis to produce food. Since the Industrial Revolution, the emission of gas has been on a steady increase such that some areas have carbon dioxide concentration up to 4% above the acceptable 0.03%. it is this increase that is associated with global warming. Therefore, it is factual that 20 million more trees on the planet will see 10 million more tonnes of carbon dioxide absorbed from the atmosphere in exchange for oxygen.
Anesthetic value
Forests have an aesthetic advantage over the human mind and soul. According to research, workers that use forested roads to work tend to be more productive than their counterparts who do not. Also, patients admitted to hospitals within forested landscapes have a 5% chance of healing faster than those who do not. Forests have a way of lowering blood pressure and slowing the heart rate that is key in relieving stress and depression.
Source of Food
Many trees are a source of food. Ranging from leaves, fruits, roots, and seeds, all are key components of the human diet, for healthy living. Food products from green plants are the safest of all.
Some trees have medicinal value
Some trees and herbs have roots, leaves, and or barks that are wonderful medicinal products, dealing with a wide range of ailments.
Water Catchment Areas.
Most forested areas are sources of main rivers in most countries. Secondly, the same forests are rain catchment areas. This is true since many forested areas receive high rainfall. Rivers and rain have many other advantages that are indirect benefits f forests.
Prevention of Soil Erosion
Tree roots hold soil particles firmly protecting them against agents of soil erosion such as water and wind.
Wood products
Most trees are identified by the numerous wood products they provide. Their vast application in the furniture industry to the building and construction industry is characteristic of most forests. Wood fuel, additionally, is the most common use of forest products.
Basing on the benefits above of forests and trees in general, all people must join in the greening agenda of the planet. Children, youth, adults, and the old, none must be left behind. “He who plants a tree does it not for self, but posterity.
Article by:
Robert Meya
meyarobert4@gmail.com