Trees tackle heat islands, leave people with better mental health, and more
Source: Debbi Mayster (TurfMutt Foundation)
ALEXANDRIA, Va. — As the summer heats up and urban areas grow hotter, the TurfMutt Foundation – which has advocated for the care and use of yards, parks and other green spaces for 15 years – reminds homeowners of the importance of trees and other living plants for mitigating the heat island effect. A report by the research group Climate Central shows that more than 40 million Americans live in urban heat islands – areas within cities that are hotter than nearby rural spaces. Trees, along with plants like grass, shrubs and bushes, help cool the environment through the processes of evapotranspiration.
“It seems like every year we hear of record-breaking temperatures, and these hot summer days are a good reminder about why we need more trees and other green space in our yards and neighborhoods,” said Kris Kiser, President & CEO of the TurfMutt Foundation. “It’s remarkable to think about all of the positive effects the green space in our own backyards and community parks can have on our everyday lives.”
Here are just five reasons why trees are tops at reducing heat islands…and more:
• Mother Nature’s Air Conditioner
By providing shade, trees lower surface and air temperatures. In fact, shaded surfaces could be 20-45°F cooler than temperatures in unshaded areas, according to the EPA. Additionally, the EPA reports that the process of evapotranspiration can help reduce peak summer temperatures by 2-9°F.
• Increased Tree Canopy = Decreased Heat-Related Illnesses
According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HSS), heat-related deaths have been increasing in the U.S. HSS statistics show 1,722 people died in 2022 from heat and in 2023 that number increased to 2,302. But more trees can help people stay safe during hot days. In fact, according to a study published in The Lancet, increasing the tree canopy in 93 European cities to 30 percent coverage could prevent an estimated four in 10 premature heat-related deaths.
• Better Mental Health
According to the Arbor Day Foundation’s Canopy Report, people who engage with trees and green spaces on a daily basis are happier and score higher in their mental and physical health than those spending time in nature less often. The report also indicates city dwellers with access to adequate green space experience 31 percent less psychological distress. Furthermore, children who live near more green space have a decreased risk of developing mental health disorders as they age.
• Good for the Environment
Trees are one of nature’s environmental superheroes. One tree produces nearly 260 pounds of oxygen each year. Two mature trees provide enough oxygen for one person to breathe over the course of a year. In Los Angeles alone, trees remove nearly 2,000 tons of air pollution each year.
• Energy Savings
Strategically placing trees around buildings and homes can save up to 30 percent on air conditioning costs and up to 50 percent for heating, according to the U.S. Forest Service. The U.S. Department of Energy devised computer models that predict the proper placement of only three trees can save an average household between $100 and $250 in energy costs annually.
About TurfMutt
TurfMutt, which is celebrating its 15th anniversary in 2024, was created by the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute’s (OPEI) TurfMutt Foundation and has reached more than 70 million children, educators and families since 2009. Championed by Foundation spokesdog, Mulligan the TurfMutt, and through education partners such as Weekly Reader, Discovery Education and Scholastic, TurfMutt has taught students and teachers how to “save the planet, one yard at a time.” Today, TurfMutt is an official USGBC® Education Partner and part of their global LEARNING LAB. TurfMutt has been an education resource at the U.S. Department of Education’s Green Ribbon Schools, the U.S. Department of Energy, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Green Apple, the Center for Green Schools, the Outdoors Alliance for Kids, the National Energy Education Development (NEED) project, Climate Change Live, Petfinder and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. In 2017, the TurfMutt animated video series won the coveted Cynopsis Kids Imagination Award for Best Interstitial Series. TurfMutt’s personal, home habitat was featured in the 2017-2020 Wildlife Habitat Council calendars. More information at www.TurfMutt.com.
