Tree - Basics

Trees are precious resources. Every part of it plays a role in our survival.

The Roots

• Prevent soil erosion, thereby maintaining its fertility
• Hold moisture, thereby conserving groundwater
• Used for making medicines
• Absorb water from the soil

The Leaves

• Convert carbon dioxide to oxygen, making it possible for us to breathe and live
• Convert the sun's energy into food through photosynthesis
• Provide fodder for cattle and manure for plants
• Litter the ground, increasing water infiltration into the soil

The Branches

• Provide firewood
• Firewood accounts for 70% of cooking fuel in villages and 50% in urban areas of India. 1.2 kg of firewood is required to cook 1 kg of food. Rural India depends on firewood, because it is free.

The Flowers

• Used by birds and insects for pollination
• Provide nectar for insects and drugs
• Used for making dyes

The Fruits and Nuts

• Provide food for people and animals

The Trunk

• Provides timber
• Provides pulp for making paper
• Used for making medicine and yarn
• Tapped for latex (as in rubber)

The Tree

• Provides shade, thereby bringing down the temperature
• Acts as a barrier against noise
• Absorbs air pollutants
• Provides a home for birds, insects and animals

The tree is an entire industry we must preserve it

Source : CPR Environmental Education Centre, Chennai