Making trees matter!

Trees are an essential part of our ecosystem. School children study the impact of trees on life on earth from an early age, but still this critical educational topic seems to be undervalued by adults across the globe.  If we are honest, how many of us have given much thought to trees following our school years – beyond providing shade or shelter for us?  Do you even remember why trees are so tremendous?

Did you know for example that trees can reduce local temperatures by providing shading and releasing water? This is such an important benefit that many cities around the world have started tree planting programmes to create more urban forests - as not only do they gain the benefit of decreasing temperatures, but they are able to mitigate gas emissions and air pollution – just from a tree.  Which is why the more trees we have the better it is for our climate, and our living conditions.

Unfortunately, though, deforestation is making this reality a challenge.  While global leaders have pledged to end deforestation by the end of the decade – it doesn’t look like this pledge has turned into results.  In fact, the recent findings of a report undertaken by the World Research Institute stated that in 2021, a loss of 11.1 million hectares (ha) of primary old-growth forest in tropical regions, globally, was experienced. This resulted in an increase of 2.5 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions – which is extraordinary.

And yes, we need land for farming and agriculture development – that is a given, and food security is a real concern, but surely there needs to be a balance?

Not only do trees provide us with the oxygen we need to breathe but they create the foundation for habitats for wildlife and plants.  They prevent soil erosion, buffer noise pollution, and clean the air. Without these wonderful plants, our planet would be barren. Make no mistake: we need to be planting trees.

However, planting the wrong trees, in the wrong place can reduce biodiversity, and make an ecosystem far less resilient.  So, you must know why you are planting the tree and what impact it will have. Things like:

• Should you plant trees that provides more than one service? For example, fruit trees provide a cash crop and increase food security while also attracting important animal species like pollinators, which are vital for our survival. 
• Have you considered the environment the tree is going to be planted in? Indigenous trees thrive in areas where they belong, so make sure to plant the right tree in the right location.
• Trees need the right soil to grow – so for example - organic matter and nutrients when planting trees, particularly in urban areas, is critically important.

While these points may seem simple, they are key to ensuring a ‘nothing wasted in nature’ mentality. We want to honour the life cycle of the tree – from seed to decay - to ensure a healthy biodiversity is created and maintained – as it allows us to harvest them correctly for our owns needs and that of our wildlife.

Certainly, at Interwaste we have recognised this requirement and as part of our commitment to protecting and restoring biodiversity.  In fact, Interwaste has planted over 400 indigenous trees at sites in South Africa and we have also supported Moz4Trees in Mozambique – where over last 2 years we have helped to plant 1500 trees in the Nhamacoa Forest. And we will continue to focus on this critical aspect of our environment to enhance and regenerate the biodiversity in the areas in which we operate. 

If you want to get involved in planting trees and protecting our biodiversity, why not connect with some local organisations to do this, like www.saforesttrust.com or www.trees.org.za who provide great platforms for individuals, and companies, to get involved and help with the reforestation of South Africa.