Why should we plant trees?

With the world facing a climate crisis, protecting the environment has never been more important and urgent. We must start taking action. Beyond our goal of becoming the leading insurer in Quebec, Panda7 wants to go further. Therefore, we have decided to give back to our surrounding communities by committing to plant one million trees by 2030. You can learn more about our goals on ourEnvironment PageWhy plant trees? What are the benefits of planting trees?

Read on to learn more about the importance and benefits of planting trees.

How trees benefit our land –

A single tree makes all the difference. Trees are essential to our environment and play a vital role in the survival of our society. They are even often used to symbolize a sacred being in many religious texts. But how do they benefit our Earth? Here are the impacts trees have on our planet:

They filter the air.

Trees can help filter the air we breathe, cleaning it by absorbing pollutants through their bark and leaves and releasing clean oxygen as a byproduct of photosynthesis. In urban areas, where nitrogen oxides and carbon monoxide may be more prevalent, trees can absorb these pollutants and sweep away excess smoke and dust. As deforestation increases, so have carbon dioxide levels. To offset this, planting trees can help reduce carbon emissions and convert them into cleaner oxygen, thus mitigating the devastating effects of climate change.

They clean our water.

Not only do trees purify the air, but they also play an important role in filtering our water systems. Mature trees can intercept enormous quantities of water each year, a function they naturally perform in our forests. Their roots can help remove pollutants and slow water infiltration into the soil (which can prevent accelerated erosion, water slides, oversaturation, and even flooding).

They support the ecosystem.

A single tree can shelter hundreds, even thousands, of species of fungi, plants, insects, and mammals of all sizes. Many animals depend on trees for habitat, food, and shelter from predators. Often, young forests are somewhat open.s They attract bears, finches, and other small bird species. More robust forests that have existed for longer will attract herds of elk, frogs, and small lizards. Finally, your older trees can nourish generations of vegetation and fungi, and provide homes for squirrels, birds, bats, and other creatures. Trees can also produce fruits, nuts, berries, and leaves that animals (and humans!) can eat, meaning that trees serve not only as shelter but also as a source of nutrition for some.

They provide jobs.

There are a multitude of jobs available in the forestry industry. Whether you're a researcher, logger, or even an arborist, many jobs depend on the health of trees to thrive. Sustainable arboriculture (not to be confused with massive deforestation) can provide timber as well as lumber for building houses, firewood for cooking, heating, and more.

They are the foundation of our communities and traditions.

Trees are part of traditions in many cultures, whether as religious symbols or integral parts of our communities. Trees and wooded areas also provide educational opportunities for hiking, camping, birdwatching, and studying our natural ecosystems. They also foster a sense of adventure and a passion for nature in our youth.

They improve our mental health.

Not only do trees improve our physical health by filtering our air, cleaning our water, and acting as a barrier against otherwise harmful ultraviolet radiation, but they can also improve our mental health. How? Our mental health can be improved by engaging with nature, as studies have shown that being surrounded by trees or a natural environment can reduce our levels of depression and stress. This is why walks in the forest are highly recommended to help us manage our stress levels. Trees are naturally calming.

Our future depends on trees.

Because of all the reasons why humans, animals, and our environment depend on trees, Panda7 believes the best way to give back—and the best way to combat the damage caused by climate change—is to plant trees. Since June 1, 2021, Panda7 (with its partnership, Brynk.eco) has planned to plant a tree for every quote received—and to triple that number if you choose to purchase a policy. Together, we aim to make the planet green again and remove CO2 emissions from the atmosphere. You don't have to buy an electric car—you can simply purchase a policy with Panda7. Planting trees is also another way to support the economy, as it creates numerous job opportunities. For more information about our giving-back insurance, see the Environment Page from Panda7.

We hope this article has given you a better understanding of why Panda7 chose to plant trees and to have a different perspective on trees!