An understanding of the functions and benefits of urban forests will lead to management strategies that enhance human health, environmental quality and local economies.
The social benefits of urban forests are equally as important. People and animals alike benefit from the physical, mental, emotional and psychological advantages that trees bring to an urban environment. To maximise the value of the urban forest in your commercial, residential or municipal development project, be sure to hop online and search for “a level 5 arborist near me.”
Here in Australia, we are enriched with a culturally, historically and environmentally diverse ecosystem. As our infrastructure expands, urban forests must be managed and enhanced to benefit communities and ecosystems.
The Functional Benefits Of The Urban Forest
Air Pollution Management: The urban forest improves air quality by lowering air temperature, removing pollutants from the air, and balancing carbon dioxide emissions with increased oxygen production.
Combating Climate Change And Rising Temperatures: Urban forests and tree cover are vital in helping cities address climate change, lowering temperatures through evapotranspiration and providing shade. They absorb greenhouse gases, minimising the effects of excessive heat and climate change on human health.
Improving Energy Efficiency In Cities: Existing urban forests are predicted to reduce yearly air conditioning energy use by 2.5%, saving $485.8 million in wholesale value. When cities feature more vegetation, the energy demand is cut by 10 %, around $778.5 million in utility bills per year. This reduced energy consumption in buildings also translates to lower carbon emissions in commercial and industrial zones.
Storm Water Management: Urban forests and root networks safeguard coastal communities from catastrophic weather events and rising sea levels by regulating water flows. In many urban areas, surface stormwater runoff may contribute to the contamination of surface water bodies such as streams, marshes, rivers, lakes and seas.
Strategic root management plays a vital role in managing stormwater, as well as reducing the structural soil damage heavy rains can cause.
Strengthening Our Engagement WIth Nature: Urban vegetation, in all settings, whether aesthetic or functional, plays an interactive role in helping communities respond adaptively to climate change through engagement with nature.
Australia is blessed with a rich heritage; some trees and traditionally owned landscapes hold deep cultural significance to Australia’s indigenous communities. By protecting these sites, we preserve our natural history in a way that enriches our present and future generations.
They also provide a welcome visual and emotional relief from the bustling urban infrastructure. Trees and parks play an essential stress-relieving role in cities.
Protecting Local Ecosystems: Urban forests provide resilient habitats, naturally occurring food sources and safe routes for migratory plant and animal species.
Treescience offers over 35 years of experience in Arboriculture as well as urban forest management in commercial, residential and municipal developments. When browsing for a ‘Level 5 Arborist near me’ and your search brings you to the Treescience team, you are opening the door to a holistic approach to Arboriculture ‒ one that balances the needs of communities, environments and local economies. Contact us today.