Carbon footprint – we’ve all heard these two words, but do we actually know what they mean? Our carbon footprint is the amount of greenhouse gases that we generate from our actions, including carbon dioxide and methane.
In the UK, the average carbon footprint is 10 tonnes of CO2 per person, per year! 40% of our carbon emissions are generated from households too!
There is a way that we can help reduce our carbon footprint and therefore help with climate change. The simple act of maintaining our trees, forests and woodlands, but also by helping plant new woodland areas! All in all, trees can help reduce carbon footprint!
What Benefit do Trees Have with Carbon Footprint Reduction?
Trees absorb the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Through the process of photosynthesis, they then produce oxygen and release this back into the atmosphere. The more trees we have to absorb and lock away this carbon dioxide, the healthier and cleaner our air will be.
Not only will planting more trees help with this process, but they will also provide habitats for wildlife and support biodiversity.
It is estimated that 22lbs of carbon dioxide can be absorbed by a mature tree per year. In exchange, the tree will produce 2 years’ worth of oxygen into the atmosphere. Trees also have the benefit of providing a windbreak in the winter months, reducing heat loss in buildings by up to 50%, and providing shade during the summer, reducing temperatures in these areas by up to 25 degrees! These small things can help reduce our energy consumption, reducing our carbon footprint.
A single tree will produce 2 years’ worth of oxygen into the atmosphere
How We Can Reduce Our Carbon Footprint
There are a few other ways in which we can actively help reduce our carbon footprint:
- Energy – limit waste, use a renewable energy supplier and become more energy efficient.
- Food – buy locally produced products. Consider what you are eating and where it is from.
- Retail – buy from sustainable retailers or second-hand items.
- Travel – use public transport, cycle or walk as an alternative to driving.
A few small changes can make a big difference in the long run.
The Tree Doctors…
Here at The Tree Doctors, we aim to help you maintain your trees which in turn, helps you reduce your carbon footprint too.
If you are in need of tree maintenance, hedge maintenance, or if you know of work that needs doing in your local area, we want to hear from you! Call us today or complete our contact form and one of our team will be in touch with your soon.
