The beauty of trees is not only in their appearance, but also in the benefits they provide. Trees play a vital role in generating clean oxygen and keeping our environment cool. Science has now predicted that trees can save lives by reducing urban temperatures.
In London, scientists have estimated that trees have saved more than 150 lives over the past eight years by lowering the temperature of the city by up to 35°F (2°C). However, developing cities often uproot trees to make way for concrete car parks and pedestrianized zones, leaving runners and walkers with no choice but to exercise in urban areas. This can lead to a phenomenon known as the “Urban Heat Island Effect,” where urban areas become significantly hotter than surrounding rural areas due to human activities.
According to recent studies, Chicago is on track to see an increase of more than 30 days per year where temperatures exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8°C). Higher temperatures can exacerbate existing health conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, respiratory problems, and diabetes. Additionally, urban areas tend to have higher levels of air pollution which further contributes to these health problems.
However, there is hope as researchers predict that increasing tree canopy coverage can help mitigate high urban temperatures in the future. A study published in IOP Science estimates that during heatwave events in 2022, tree coverage helped avoid around 16 heat attributable deaths in London. Therefore, it is important for cities to prioritize greening initiatives as part of a set of broader public health actions that aim to reduce heat-related mortality in the future.
So next time you go for a run or walk, take a moment to appreciate your leafy friends and thank them for their contributions towards your well-being and the well-being of others around you.
