Tropical Rainforest And Mountain Species May Be Threatened By Global Warming

As Earth's climate has warmed in recent decades, the geographical ranges of well-studied bird, butterfly, and plant species in the US and Europe have moved northward, following the gradual northward shift of their familiar climates. Other studies have shown that species in the US and Europe have shifted to higher elevations, as temperature zones on mountains have moved upward.

In contrast, surprisingly little attention has been given to the effects of warming climate on tropical plants and animals. Colwell's article in Science magazine this week may change that.

The report points out that tropical climates have warmed too (more than 3/4 degrees Centigrade [1.4 degrees Fahrenheit] since 1975), and climate models predict an additional increase of more than 3 degrees Centigrade (nearly 6 degrees Fahrenheit) over the next century in the tropical forests of Central and South America. This much warming would shift temperature zones uphill about 600 m (nearly 2000 feet) in elevation above sea level. Tropical species, like those at higher latitudes, will likely be driven to higher elevations by these changes, following the climate zones they are suited for.

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The painting is by Nancy Merkle

Planting Trees for Your Home and the Planet

I always hear green skeptics say things like - “You tree huggers, always talking about planting trees!” Which of course is far from true, there are plenty of green actions you can take that have nothing to do with tree planting.

That said, tree planting (not to focus on green stereotypes) is one great way to green your house, and the environment, all at the same time. Here are some benefits of planting more trees near your home…

It’s easy: Of all the green action steps you can take, tree planting has got to be one of the easiest. Anyone can plant a tree.

Trees save energy: Using smart landscaping, the average home can save $150+ a year on energy costs. Trees add as sun and wind blockers, create natural awnings, and more. Trees also help reduce water needs on plants planted nearby.

Trees create, restore, and promote habitats: Birds, animals, insects, and people all need trees to enjoy. As habitats are destroyed, as we fill in land with concrete, we’re making the world a less nice place to be. Planting trees helps to restore balance.

Trees promote human health and well-being: Trees are relaxing. I always feel better in say, Oregon than the middle of Albuquerque, where large trees are rare. Trees reduce the amount of carbon dioxide in the air, and a newer study shows that neighborhoods with plenty of trees have reduced instances of youth asthma.

Trees protect land: Besides cleaning the air, which is great for animals and people, trees stop massive erosion and create natural shade for other shrubs and plants. In fact less mulching is needed for plants who live under trees.

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The painting is by Nancy Merkle

Kids living in tree-lined streets less prone to asthma: study

New York (PTI): Children who reside in tree-lined streets are less prone to develop asthma, researchers have suggested.

It is the first time that tree density has been linked with asthma. There has been around 160 per cent increase in asthma cases globally in the last two decades. The rise in asthma cases is believed to be linked with reduced exposure to bacteria that leaves the immune system underdeveloped.

The findings, reported in The Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, suggests that a leafy suburban lifestyle goes some way to protecting children against the disease.

"Street trees were associated with a lower prevalence of early childhood asthmas," the team led by Dr Gina Lovasi wrote in the journal.

The analysis, based on data on asthma rates across New York, found that children in the greenest streets were least likely to develop asthma, although the degree of leafiness was not correlated with the number of more serious asthma attacks that led to hospitalisations. In New York City, asthma is the leading cause of admission to hospital among children under 15.

Researchers from Columbia University in New York found that asthma rates among four-to five-year-olds fell by almost a quarter for every 343 extra trees per square kilometre in an urban area, the report said.

"There may be something else healthful about the areas that had more trees. For example, trees could be more abundant in areas that are well maintained in other ways," Lovasi said.

Article here

Trees - The Natural Answer To Global Warming

by Jeff Miller

Are trees the natural answer to global warming? Research shows that trees are great for the environment! Through cleaning and cooling the air around them, they grow by absorbing carbon dioxide and give off oxygen that we need to breathe.

Plant Trees to Save Energy & Money Have you heard the phrase, "money doesn't grow on trees?' "Well, it can and it does," says Lin Diacont, President of the Virginia Green Industry Council, "besides beautifying our homes and communities, trees are natural air conditioners and energy savers! Simply by following a few basic tree-planting rules, you can save energy and money on utility bills." For example, an acre of young trees annually produces enough oxygen to keep 18 people alive and at the same time, absorbs the amount of carbon dioxide produced by driving a car 26,000 miles! Studies conducted by research universities have documented air-conditioning energy saving as much as 50 percent or more by shading the windows and walls of your home. For, tree leaves not only block the sun's rays but give off moisture that cools the air in a process called evapotranspiration. Trees similarly make efficient sound barriers from traffic and factories. Each 100 foot width of trees absorbs about 6-8 decibels of sound intensity. This reduction would be welcomed to residents along a busy highway, which can generate as much as 72 decibels. So, the next time you plant a tree for its aesthetic appeal, be aware that by following a few guidelines, you will not only beautify your yard but improve air quality, lower energy bills and reduce unwelcome noise.

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Plant a tree and enjoy the benefits

Whether doing it to be more environmentally conscious or to make your home’s landscape more aesthetically appealing, planting a tree or trees around your property can be a great way to spend some time outdoors while making a positive impact on your surroundings.

Some of the benefits are:

•Shade trees can reduce utility bills for air conditioning by 15-50 percent.

•In one year an average tree produces enough oxygen for a family of four for a year.

•One tree will absorb the carbondioxide from four cars every year.

•Studies indicate that trees help create feelings of relaxation and well-being.

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