Blistering heat has been sweeping through most parts of the world this year. This includes even Europe, hitherto well frequented by tourists wanting to get away from the hot weather in their respective countries. Buildings, concrete, poorer air quality and limited shade and green space all contribute to warmer temperatures in urban areas.

Unchecked global warming fuels the heat waves manifold. Only solution to combat heat waves and fight global warming is planting of more trees.

As climate change continues to warm the planet, trees are the tools to defeat the heat waves. It’s a well- known fact that cities are much warmer than rural areas as concrete buildings reduces the cool shade and moisture as sun shines down on a dry, exposed city block. Concrete block absorbs heat much more readily than a wet, shady surface.

As summer approaches people turn on air conditioners to get respite from the unbearable heat. There is an increase in electricity demand which in turn makes our power plant burn more coal and release more greenhouse gases in order to keep up with the electricity demand.

But well grown trees gives cool shade and helps in keeping the temperature comfortable enough. Then there is no need to switch on the AC.

Trees also act as natural carbon sinks, removing and storing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. In the short term, trees reduce smog and acid rain -slowing down the  climate change.

A grassy field absorbs water a lot better than a parking lot. In some cities, rain causes billions of gallons of sewer runoff a year. That sewage can send contaminants into streams and rivers, polluting our drinking water supply and throwing off intricate ecosystems.

A cool summer rain might be welcomed, but not if it means raw sewage running through the streets.

The large roots of trees absorb excess rainwater and prevent sewage runoff. Tree roots can also filter the rain that turns into groundwater, effectively filtering our drinking water.

It’s scientifically proven that people like Green areas.  Access to green spaces, even small ones, can improve mental health in urban areas. Plus, trees reduces noise pollution- a relief between the honking of cars and bustling groups of people. In a landscape of concrete and brick, the occasional squirrel or bird is a welcomed sight.

Inputs- earthday.org