American Reforestation Initiative
Understanding the Benefits of Trees
Globally, trees provide a wealth of benefits, including wildlife ecosystems, increased biodiversity, air quality, carbon dioxide capture, wind breaks, healthy watersheds, sources of income, reduction of energy usage, adding beauty to our natural landscapes, and much more. Planting a tree is the greenest activity you can do!
Our Supporters
One hundred mature trees catch about 139,000 gallons of rainwater per year. National forests and grasslands are the largest source of fresh water in the U.S. under a single manager, with about 20% originating from 193 million acres of land. Some 180 million people in over 68,000 communities rely on forested lands to capture and filter their drinking water.
Clean Water
Forests can harbor an immense amount of biodiversity, particularly mixed-species forests, which can assist with pest regulation of native and invading insects, pollination, seed dispersal, wildlife habitat, and fire regulation.
Biodiversity
One hundred trees remove 53 tons of carbon dioxide and 430 pounds of other air pollutants per year.
Clean Air
Strategically placed trees save up to 56% on annual air-conditioning costs. Evergreens that block winter winds can save up to 3% on heating.
Reference: Trees | US Forest Service
Reducing Energy Usage
