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Why Are Trees Important?
Trees are an integral part of the ecosystem – it helps to maintain balance and also acts as a valuable source of many resources – such as timber, medicine, shelter, raw materials and more. Furthermore, trees are the natural shelter of many animals, hence, this is the reason why animals usually encroach into human territories when forests are destroyed.
Social Value
Historically, trees have been worshipped or given cultural significance. Especially in India, many trees are considered sacred because of their usefulness or their tie to ancient Indian mythologies. Other cultures have symbolically represented trees and their foliage in artworks and sculptures. Moreover, some cultures observe trees as powerful symbols of life, death and rebirth.
Community Value
Trees and other shrubs have adorned our parks and gardens, providing pleasing aesthetics for the environment. Moreover, trees provide shade, which is crucial during the summer months. Trees and other foliage near residential areas increase the value of the area. Furthermore, some trees, which are hundreds of years old serve as popular attractions or as historic landmarks. For example, a tree called the Dodda Alada Mara (Big Banyan Tree) is a popular tourist attraction in Bangalore. This 400-year-old tree covers nearly 12,000 m2 and is considered the largest of its kind.
Ecological Value of Trees
Trees are important to the ecosystem because, without them, the land would become barren and lifeless. Moreover, there are countless animals that live on trees. These animals are called arboreal animals and spend their entire lives on trees – raising their young, feeding, sleeping and mating. If trees are cut down, these animals have nowhere else to live and could go extinct. Animals that live in the trees include sloths, flying snakes, geckos, koalas, opossums and tarsiers. There are hundreds of species of spiders and insects that make trees their homes.
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