In 2002, scientists discovered that a beetle known as the emerald ash borer was killing ash trees in the United States. By 2010, 100 million trees were dead. Along with the trees, at least 21,000 Americans died as well. Why? The presence of trees can play an essential role in our mental and physical well-being.
The Loss of Trees and Its Impact on Human Lives
When the emerald ash borer infests a community, city streets lined with ash trees often become treeless. Researchers believe that the loss of these trees also contributes to extra human fatalities. The comfort we derive from trees can support our health, and when they are taken away, many of us suffer the consequences.
An analysis of 18 years of data from 1,296 counties across 15 states revealed that people living in areas infested by the emerald ash borer experienced an additional 15,000 deaths from cardiovascular disease and 6,000 more deaths from lower respiratory disease when compared to uninfected areas.
The researchers examined demographic, human mortality, and forest health data at the county level between 1990 and 2007. The data originated from counties with at least one confirmed case of the emerald ash borer in 2010.
“There’s a natural tendency to see our findings and conclude that, surely, the higher mortality rates are because of some confounding variable, like income or education, and not the loss of trees,” says Geoffrey Donovan, a research forester at the Forest Service’s Pacific Northwest Research Station. “But we saw the same pattern repeated over and over in counties with very different demographic makeups.”
The Health Benefits of Trees
The connection between trees and human health might not be apparent at first glance, but there are several reasons why trees have a significant impact on our well-being.
Reduction of Air Pollution
Trees purify the air by absorbing pollutants such as sulfur dioxide, ammonia, and ozone. They also filter fine particulate matter, which can exacerbate respiratory diseases like asthma and COPD. According to the US Forest Service, trees in urban areas remove about 711,000 metric tons of pollution each year, which reduces respiratory issues and saves around $3.8 billion in health care costs annually.
Cooling Effect
Trees help regulate temperature by providing shade and releasing water vapor into the atmosphere. In urban areas, this cooling effect can reduce the heat island effect, making cities more comfortable during hot weather. The shade provided by trees can also decrease the need for air conditioning in buildings, potentially reducing energy consumption and utility bills.
Reduction of Noise Pollution
Trees can absorb and deflect noise, making our surroundings quieter and more pleasant. Studies have shown that exposure to excessive noise may cause stress and other negative health effects, such as sleep disturbance and increased blood pressure. By buffering noise, trees contribute to a more relaxing and peaceful environment.
Mental Health Benefits
Trees and green spaces play a significant role in mental well-being. According to a study published in the journal Nature, people who live in urban areas with more green space have lower mental distress levels and higher life satisfaction. Other studies have connected nature exposure to reduced stress, increased creativity, and improved memory.
Promotion of Physical Activity
Trees and green spaces can encourage people to engage in physical activity, such as walking, jogging, or cycling. Higher levels of physical activity are associated with numerous health benefits, such as reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity. By fostering exercise opportunities, trees indirectly contribute to improved human health.
Conclusion
The loss of trees, as seen with the emerald ash borer infestation, can have severe consequences on human health. Trees provide essential physical, mental, and environmental benefits that support our lives. Taking steps to protect and preserve our trees and green spaces is vital for the well-being of current and future generations.
