California has seen more than its share of environmental and economic distress. Even so, California has been at the forefront of positive action to mitigate and adapt to an ever-changing landscape. Individuals themselves can take action in their own backyards by planting trees and will derive economic, health and environmental benefits in doing so.
Save Money
The strategic planting of trees can save household money on utility costs by providing shade from the strong California summer sun. Local or regional tree nurseries are a good bet for finding a palm tree Mountain View, or other species, that is healthy and well suited for the environment.
Improve House Values
Trees add value to your home. Even if you are not looking to sell your house now, planting trees will increase your home’s worth should you decide to do so in the future.
Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Nature is excellent for your mental health, and you don’t have to go any further than your own backyard to get it. Trees have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, so including them in your yard means that all you have to do to reap the benefits is step outside.
Capture Water
In drought-prone California, water conservation is a fact of life. On the flip side of drought is flooding, another familiar experience for those living in the Golden State. Trees help in both situations because they capture water. During drought times, this is important for maintaining moisture for longer periods of time when rain does fall, and when it falls in abundance, trees prevent runoff and erosion.
Mitigate Climate Change
Planting trees is one of the cheapest and easiest steps people can take to help reduce the impacts of climate change. Trees capture carbon dioxide, release oxygen and reduce the urban heat island effect, as well as providing a number of other environmental benefits.
Planting trees can be a fun and therapeutic activity for everyone in your household, and the economic, health and environmental benefits will last for years to come.
