Arbor Day

Deforestation through logging and kaingin (slash and burn faming) contributes to the rapid increase in greenhouse gases that speed up the adverse effects of climate change.

Our tropical forest serves as a carbon sink that stores greenhouse gases which are the main cause of climate change. We need to plant native trees in our area to avoid the unnecessary accidental introduction of invasive alien species.

A single tree you planted might have an insignificant impact but our collective efforts of planting trees will slowly create a big impact to save our planet Earth.

    In the recent trends, climate scientists say it’s ‘now or never’ to climate change’s critical limits which they are struggling to convince and call for action of every political leader to take it seriously. It is a moral responsibility of every nation and us as individuals to take care of our only home, the planet earth. The government must now look for alternative sources of renewable energy, lessen reliance on fossil fuels, and come up with solutions to mitigate climate change.

    Planting a tree during #ArborDay is a simple act of commitment to help save our planet Earth. Why should we plant more trees? First, it can combat Climate Change, through photosynthesis, the harmful carbon dioxide from the air is absorbed and stored in the trees. In return, oxygen is released by the trees for us to breathe easily.

    Urban trees provide shade, shelter, and a source of food for many native animals residing in the city. Urban trees are good for our mental and physical health and have proven to reduce our stress and anxiety. Trees in the watershed safeguard our water supply during long droughts.

    But we must consider choosing the right species of trees to be planted in the right place to avoid possible invasive alien species. We should promote planting native and/or endemic species in our forests to enhance the local biodiversity.

    The tree that we planted today might have no visible impact today but as it grows its many ecological services will benefit our future generation far beyond our lifetime. Now is the time for us to start planting a tree.

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