Trees help reduce pollution, provide fresher and cleaner air, cool hot summer air, and reduce stormwater runoff. But did you know they increase the value of a neighbourhood— both financially and health-wise? A recent study revealed that trees provide a financial boon, in addition to offering shade and fresh air.
A team of researchers at Ryerson University found out that residents in lower income neighbourhoods with a greater urban tree canopy enjoy better health and residential property values. Similarly, homeowners and tenants in higher income neighbourhoods with fewer trees had poorer health.
Another Toronto study showed that planting an additional 10 trees per city block helps make residents healthier — and increases household income by $10,000-$20,000 by reducing the likelihood of cancer, diabetes, and other health issues. According to research, “Planting 10 more trees on a city block “has equivalent health benefits to increasing the income of every household in that city block by more than $10,200 and having all of those households be moved to a neighbourhood that was $10,000 wealthier.”
Additionally, researchers also found a surprising quirk: Trees lining the street offer more benefits than ones in the backyard. The city of Toronto plans to expand tree planting programs to achieve “canopy equity” among neighbourhoods with differing income medians. By planting 10 more trees per block in barren areas, Toronto’s overall number of trees can increase by four percent.
Local Enhancement and Appreciation of Forests (LEAF), a non-profit community organization that protects and enhances the urban forests, focuses on creating community access to more trees. Aided by government and private grants, they help plant more trees on private property, at a smaller cost to homeowners. Toronto currently has a 27 percent canopy coverage and the city goal is to reach at least 40 percent.
The trees in your front garden that aren’t managed by the City require regular care and maintenance to prevent potential pest infestation and disease. And if you wish to add a special tree or increase the shade on your property, Call Dave Lund Tree Service and Forestry Co Ltd. You can reach us at (905) 884-0511 for current canopy care and planting new, healthy trees. Send us a message through our contact page for tree service in Richmond Hill.