As trees grow, they remove carbon dioxide from the air, storing carbon in the wood and soil, and releasing oxygen into the atmosphere. Trees provide many benefits to us, every day. They offer cooling shade, block cold winter winds, attract birds and wildlife, prevent soil erosion, clean our water, and add grace and beauty to our homes and communities.

Scientists estimate that about twice as many trees existed on Earth before human civilization.

The task of restoring vegetation is more complex than simply planting seeds wherever there is soil. Success depends on planting the right tree for the right purpose in the right place. Planters must select a seedling that suits the site, so it can fulfil multiple functions – offering a source of food/timber or a habitat for wildlife etc. and protecting air, water and soil quality.

Eucalyptus absorb a lot of carbon because they grow quickly. They keep this carbon locked in for 100’s of years before they die.

Maintaining the health of existing trees is also very important, so that carbon will not be released from the wood of dead trees, prematurely.

There are many things you can do to contribute to the economic, environmental and social benefits provided by trees in your community: you can plant a tree in your own backyard, mulch around trees already growing in your garden, register to join in a community planting day or request your council plant a ‘street’ tree.

Which one of these tasks will you undertake or can you do some thing else to help address the need for more trees for on the Earth.