A range of indigenous tree species are planted in open land or 'watershed' areas to continue the natural eco-system balance required for long-term sustainability and bio-diversity. This shows the most benefits to the environment and produces the most natural resources.
Sponsor Trees also supports Fruit Tree plantation, and these include Mango, apple, banana, papaya, guava, olive, lemons, oranges etc. Although these do not necessarily provide more benefits to the locals than their indigenous trees, they do provide valuable and needed nutrition.
You can read about our
Ethiopia project,
Malawi project and interesting tree facts on the main
projects page. For more direct and indirect benefits of trees click
here
Interesting Tree Facts - Summary
- One tree absorbs about 1 ton of carbon dioxide over its lifetime, and can produce enough oxygen for 10 people in a year.
- Each person on average produces about 10 tons of carbon dioxide every year, which amounts to 10 trees!
- Trees can help cool the earth by approximately 5'F by shading the ground around them and, evaporating moisture from their leaves.
- Tree roots stabilise worn soil, prevent erosion and guide water down to under ground aquifers supporting surrounding growth.
- Trees can help balance the eco-system, enhance bio-diversity and provide homes for wildlife and endangered species.
- Many trees coppice (grow back after cutting) and can therefore produce many times the benefits by being 'managed' correctly.
- Trees produce fruit and valuable medicines
- Trees can live for over 100 yrs and are self-sustainable
- For every 50 trees planted in deforested areas, 150 are likely to grow back.