Trees fulfill many functions, making them far more than standalone elements in a garden, park, or forest. They are invaluable for creating a healthy living environment. Trees provide various benefits that positively impact both people and nature. While it may seem obvious to many that trees are good for their surroundings, today we can substantiate their value more clearly than ever. Trees deliver a wide range of ecosystem services—sometimes less visible, but measurable and scientifically proven. Numerous studies confirm the benefits of trees for the environment.
This blog serves as an introduction to our article series Trees and Their Ecosystem Services, in which we will explain in more detail the different ways trees support people and the planet.
Ecosystems
The ecosystems surrounding trees refer to the complex interactions and interdependencies between living and non-living elements on and around the tree. Trees form an integral part of many ecosystems, providing habitat for countless organisms such as birds, insects, and mammals. They also create microclimates for other greenery such as mosses, ferns, and grasses. These organisms depend on trees, and trees in turn depend on them. It is a mutual relationship of food, shelter, and protection.
We distinguish four main categories of ecosystem services:
1. Provisioning (food supply, timber production)
2. Regulating (climate and disease control)
3. Supporting (air purification)
4. Cultural (spiritual and recreational benefits)
The Impact of Greenery in Cities
Because climate change is most acutely felt in urban environments, greenery in cities has the greatest impact on daily life. Trees play a vital role in the urban ecosystem, in regulating, supporting, and cultural ways.
They act as natural air purifiers, removing pollutants from the air. They provide shade and privacy, while cooling cities through evapotranspiration. Trees also help slow, capture, and absorb rainwater—benefiting both themselves and surrounding vegetation. Moreover, they store carbon dioxide, the greenhouse gas driving global warming. This service not only supports climate regulation but also contributes to the growth and health of the trees themselves.
Size matters: the larger the tree, the greater the crown volume, and thus the greater the effect. A large tree, for instance, provides significantly more shade than a small one.
A Better Living Environment
Planting trees may seem simple, but it has a major impact on cities. One of the most obvious benefits is improved livability—trees add beauty, color, and structure, as well as a sense of place and identity. Amsterdam, for example, is inseparably linked to its elm population (Ulmus), especially along the canal belt, where they break up the endless row of buildings. Trees also reduce noise pollution. The strong connection between city residents and their trees was famously expressed in the slogan “Geen iepen omkiepen” (“Don’t topple the elms”), painted on trees threatened with felling.
Promoting Wellbeing
Beyond environmental benefits, trees also provide social and economic value. Research shows that green spaces positively affect mental health and wellbeing, helping to reduce stress and anxiety. Greenery shapes the atmosphere of residential areas and can increase property values. Trees also lower energy costs by shading buildings and reducing the need for air conditioning.
In Summary
Planting a tree may seem like a simple act, but its benefits are many and far-reaching. Trees provide privacy, clean the air, reduce heat stress, improve mental health and wellbeing, add property value, and help mitigate climate change. By planting trees, we can make cities healthier and more livable.
In the coming blogs, we will focus on specific ecosystem services trees provide—addressing some of today’s pressing environmental challenges: water management, heat stress, air quality, biodiversity, CO₂ storage, and livability.
