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Remodeling with Trees Can Have an Environmental Impact

For Immediate Release
For Further Information Contact Sonia Garth:
(217) 355-9411 Ext 217


Remodeling with Trees Can Have an Environmental Impact

CHAMPAIGN, Ill.--When you are considering remodeling, don't just focus on the inside. Remodel your landscape as well. Besides increasing your property value, a landscape that includes trees will also increase the quality of the environment in which you live.

Trees planted today will offer benefits for years to come, including altering the environment in which we live. Improving air quality, moderating climate, and conserving water are prime examples of the paybacks the urban forest can provide.

Improvement of air quality is obtained through the filtering process of the leaves.

  • Filtering removes dust and other particulates from the air
  • Absorption of air pollutants such as carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, and sulfur dioxide
  • Renews the air supply by producing oxygen

Climate Control is obtained by moderating the effects of sun, wind, and rain.

  • Glare and Reflection Control
  • Wind Break, deflection, and filtration
  • Protection from downward fall of rain, sleet, and hail
  • Cost reduction due to shade and shelter, reducing yearly heating and cooling cost

Water conservation occurs due to the interception of water by trees.

  • Reduction of storm run-off, erosion, and the possibility of flooding
  • Improvement of water quality through purification by slowing and filtering rain water

According to Jim Skiera, Executive Director of the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), "We often think of planting trees in a rural setting, overlooking that more than 80% of the population live in our cities, where additional trees can provide the greatest benefit." As communities grow, individuals need to consider what contributions they can make to improve the urbanized environment we live in.

Skiera advises, "With a small investment individual homeowners can play a role in improving the effects of urbanization by planting and maintaining trees." It is never too late to reap the environmental benefits that trees can provide. To paraphrase a Chinese proverb: the best time to plant a tree was 25 years ago; the next best time is today.

For more facts on the environmental benefits of trees, or to find an ISA Certified Arborist, visit www.treesaregood.org.

The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), headquartered in Champaign, Ill., is a nonprofit organization supporting tree care research around the world. As part of ISA's dedication to the care and preservation of shade and ornamental trees, it offers the only internationally-recognized certification program in the industry. For more information, or to find a ISA Certified Arborist, visit www.treesaregood.org.

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Stand Tall and Proud. Sink your roots deeply into the Earth. Reflect the light of a greater source. Think long term. Go out on a limb. Remember your place among all living beings. Embrace with joy the changing seasons, for each yields its own abundance: the Energy and Birth of Spring; the Growth and Contentment of Summer; the Wisdom to let go of leaves in the Fall; the Rest and Quiet Renewal of Winter. - Ilan Shamir, "Advice From a Tree"

Resources

Avoiding Tree Damage During Construction Brochure

Treatment of Trees Damaged by Construction Brochure

Available through the ISA Web store

© International Society of Arboriculture 2009
P.O. Box 3129, Champaign, IL 61826
Email comments & questions to isa@isa-arbor.com