Why are trees important for humans and the environment?
For grown-ups: the science
Trees make oxygen, give homes and shade, hold soil, and take in some carbon dioxide.
Through photosynthesis, trees use light energy to convert carbon dioxide and water into sugars, releasing oxygen. Their roots stabilize soil, can reduce erosion and runoff, and their canopies provide habitat, shade, and local cooling. Trees store carbon in their wood, roots, and surrounding soil, helping reduce atmospheric carbon dioxide, though they are not a complete solution to climate change.
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Transcript
A tall tree rustles above us. How does it help people, animals, and our world?
Trees use sunlight, water, and air to make their own food. As they do, they release oxygen, a gas people and animals breathe.
Tree roots hold soil in place, and their leaves give shade. This can help keep land from washing away and cool sunny places.
Birds, bugs, and squirrels find food and homes in trees. Trees also take in some carbon dioxide, a gas that can warm Earth.
So trees help us breathe, shelter animals, protect soil, and help care for Earth's air.