The number of trees that are being cut down for developments in Clark County is alarming. One block from my house, 183 trees were removed for 61 houses. The fact that developers clear the land for easy access is devastating to the environment and human health. According to scientists studying 30,000 residents in Toronto, trees improved heart conditions, diabetes and mental health problems.
The benefit of trees not only absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere is powerful. Trees are known to improve urban air quality by pulling ozone, particulates, and other pollutants into their leaves and out of the air. According to psychologist Marc Berman, trees reduce stress, a mental effect that translates into physical benefits. So let’s get busy and attend the planning meetings to stop the destruction of trees in and around our neighborhoods. Developers should build around the trees, not clear them from the land.
