Global warming has received a lot of airtime lately. It appears the experts, the international community of climatologists and atmospheric scientists, have reached a majority consensus. They believe the big round ball on which we live is warming up, probably more rapidly than we first thought a few years ago. They also believe we humans and our use of carbon based fuels are significantly contributing to the CO2 output that ultimately traps greenhouse gases, making us warmer. Only good science will help explain/predict if this warming will bring catastrophic environmental changes, rapid or slower milder changes, or consequences we cannot yet comprehend.
Science has also shown the direct connection between CO2 absorption and trees. We now know that trees act as “carbon sinks” and have the ability to absorb anywhere from 1 to 1.5 Tons of CO2 from the air in the average lifetime of 100 years. That’s TONS of CO2 pulled from the air and processed without our intervention!
While global warming and CO2 output will undoubtedly be discussed and debated for a long time, it begs the next generation of questions.
What, if anything, can we do to stop or reverse the current warming trend? &
What is going to cost us to do it?
Both are great questions that governments worldwide are starting to try and figure out. For most people it’s another serious issue to study and consider globally, but also one we would all like to work on, locally. While the chief economists are suddenly very interested in what the chief climatologists have to say, we can all consider changes at a personal level that will help reduce CO2 output. There are many changes including buying the right kinds of light bulbs, using bio-fuels where possible and providing strong support for alternative energy measures.
The one CO2 reduction practice this company can help you with is through the planting of trees. Like the rest of the world, the Puget Sound has lost much of its treed landscapes. It’s a startling trend when you view the infrared imaging done of our state over the last 20-30 years. It’s a reflection of our growth that we all can change by considering how we build and grow. Should we design around the existing trees more often? Can we transplant existing trees when developing new areas?
It’s quite simple. Trees help process the carbon waste from our current fuel dependent lifestyles. If you need help with a project that calls for tree plantings, transplanting or removal, we can help. Call us or reference our website www.bigtreesupply.com for local experts that can help in your planning to keep or add trees.
We are increasingly being contacted by clients regarding the connections between Global Warming, CO2 and the ability of trees to process carbon dioxide. It’s an issue we as a company and as individuals can help explain. We also encourage clients to do their own research. There’s plenty out there to digest. We hope this article helps in your thought processes regarding what will undoubtedly be one of the mankind’s greatest challenges.
Plant Trees!
Big Trees, Inc.
