Due to rapid population growth and its consequent demand for farming land, the rate of deforestation has reached alarming levels. Additionally, due to human-induced climate change, previously fertile lands lose their flora and fauna and turn into deserts.
Lack of trees leads to severe negative impacts on the environment. Trees absorb particulate matter and therefore regulate the Air Quality Index (AQI). Lack of trees leads to poor AQI quality. Trees also give a cooling effect on their surroundings. Lack of trees leads to high temperatures and the heat gets absorbed into the asphalt creating an urban heat island effect.
Cutting trees not only reduces the plant biodiversity but also of the animals that depend on these trees for food and shelter. Ultimately ecosystems are severely affected.
Constant human activities on fertile land make the land arid over time. This phenomenon is known as desertification. Cattle overgrazing is the major cause of desertification and more and more lands are becoming infertile, thereby reducing land required for agricultural activities.
Reforestation is the process of planting trees and saplings and a way to tackle deforestation. Conserving and protecting trees is also important. The Chipko Movement that originated in 1973 is a good example where the local villagers staged non-violent protests against felling of trees for commercial purposes.
Through the Earth5R app, you will have an opportunity to perform ‘Urban Tree Counting’. In major cities, the lack of trees is a major factor for increased particulate pollution, and hotter temperatures. Trees are known to improve air quality and provide a cooling effect. you will count the number of trees in your locality and find out your local tree population density.
Earth5R will not only share your valuable survey readings within your community, but also inform your local government, and push for change. Thus, you will directly impact the noise pollution in your locality, and improve the well-being of your community.
Download Earth5R – Your environmental app, and spread sustainability in your locality!
