mental well-being has improved. xxxvi One study noted that children with Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD) were better able to concentrate after a walk in the park. Another study concluded that higher levels of neighborhood green space correspond to better mental health outcomes, The same study found a higher percentage of tree canopy correlated with more positive mental health among populations age 55 and older. Clearly, Vitamin G (green) can improve our mindset. Economic Benefits of Trees xxxvii xxxviii
Trees and landscaping can increase property value as much as 20 percent, according to the Maryland Department of Natural Resources. xxxix Trees also complement architecture and obstruct objectionable views, increasing commercial property value. Shopping areas where customers can park their cars under the cool shade of a parking lot tree in the summer tend to get more business than barren retail outlets surrounded by concrete. Shoppers are willing to pay about 10 percent higher prices for products in a shopping area with trees, as opposed to a comparable shopping district without trees. xl A few general facts about trees and the economy: ● A 25-foot tree reduces annual heating and cooling costs of a typical residence by eight to 12 percent, producing an average $10 savings per household. xli ● A mature tree canopy reduces air temperatures by about 5 to 10° F, influencing the internal temperatures of nearby buildings. xlii ● Establishing 100 million mature trees around residences in the United States would save an estimated $2 billion annually in reduced energy costs xliii Imagine what this can do for your home energy savings.
Homes surrounded by large trees typically sell at higher prices.
Trees keep our homes and communities cooler, reducing the demand for electricity for air conditioning and lowering your bills.
● The canopy of a street tree absorbs rain, reducing the amount of water that will fall on pavement and then must be removed by a stormwater drainage system. In urban and suburban settings, a single deciduous tree can intercept from 500 to 760 gallons per year; and a mature evergreen can intercept more than 4,000 gallons per year. xliv Savings are possible since cities can install surface water management systems that handle smaller amounts of runoff.
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