Tree planting
Long revered as symbols of life, trees control the amount of carbon dioxide in the air, absorbing carbon and using it for growth.
They are ten to twenty times more efficient at removing carbon from the air than crops or grassland. Reforestation — on a local, national and international level — is a crucial means of combating the greenhouse effect.
Tragically, deforestation has reached crisis proportions. World-wide, deforestation results in a fifth of global carbon emissions.
Backed by industry, local and national government, reforestation could change the nature of our urban and rural landscape, reducing global warming and creating a more pleasant environment.
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Plant trees |
If your garden is big enough, why not plant some shrubs or trees? They are attractive, provide habitats for wildlife and absorb far more carbon dioxide than a lawn. Strategically- planted trees can provide a windbreak, saving on energy consumption. Remember, though, not to plant trees too near buildings as their root systems can damage drains and cause subsidence.
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Plant a hedgerow |
Instead of a wall or fence, why not plant a hedge? A hedge is not only more valuable as a wildlife habitat but costs much less to maintain. and it absorbs carbon dioxide.
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Contact your local tree-planting organisation for voluntary work |
This is a good way to get to know your local area, its environment and the people you share it with. It's healthy too. Local organisations are always in need of volunteers.
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Form your own neighbourhood or community group to undertake tree-planting schemes |
Schools, parks and other public areas, particularly wasteland, can always be improved by planting trees. You could approach your local council for advice and cooperation on possible areas for tree-planting. It's also a way of letting the council know what your community wants. Check whether there are grants available for community tree-planting. Why not see if local businesses will sponsor tree-planting projects?
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Start a tree nursery |
Collect seeds — from your own area to ensure the trees are well-suited to local conditions - and establish a nursery. it can be small or large. You can plant the trees in your own garden, use them for community projects, give them to friends or neighbours or donate them to parks departments.
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Plant trees on unused farm land |
If you know a farmer or large land-owner suggest that they plant trees on land that is not in use or that is marginal (for example, field corners and edges). Planting hedgerows is not only an efficient use of boundary areas, it also provides livestock barriers, windbreaks, shade and shelter.
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Fight acid rain |
Public pressure would force governments to act on laws to reduce emissions of the main chemical culprits.
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Protect the rainforests |
Help maintain tropical rainforests by ensuring that your buying habits do not contribute to deforestation. For example, avoid buying products made from tropical hardwoods like teak and mahogany and don't support companies that you know are involved in forest destruction.