Plant a tree?

 

Not so fast.

 

Climate change activists like to promote the slogan; “Plant a Tree”, usually sighting the idea of atmospheric CO2 sequestration as the major reason for doing so.  Therefore, the act of “Planting a tree”, may at first glance seem as if it is a good thing to do.  However, depending on what variety of tree you choose, you may actually do more harm!

So… not so fast.  We need more thought.

Trees and other plants have evolved with partner life forms, to both help and be helped by them.  Fungi help move nutrients to plants - while the plant provides sugars.  Insects may pollinate specific plants - while parts of the same plant are food.  Birds may also pollinate a plant, while keeping aggressive insect populations in check – in turn the tree provides shelter, and food.
Non-native introduced plants do not have these relationships outside of their natural range, therefore do not contribute to the web of life in the new location, instead just taking up space.  In worse scenarios, plants can become invasive, taking over vast areas and pushing out native biota.  Introducing a new non-native plant or animal can have the counterintuitive effect of decreasing bio-diversity!
Therefore, before “Planting a tree”, make sure it is one that is actually a benefit!  Score extra points if it is a rare or uncommon species. 

In conclusion, the slogan should be re-phased to: “Plant an indigenous tree”, or “Plant a native tree”.



                                                                                                                       Plant a Native Tree!