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George R. Lee

Trees: The Best Air Filtration System


Covid-19 brought on a wave of new and or improved air filtration systems for both residential and commercial applications. The Covid-19 virus has stimulated a new awareness of just how important it is to keep our air as pure and clean as possible.


On top of that, the world continues to escalate its concern about carbon and how it is quickly depleting our clean air and oxygen. Currently many are convinced the use of EV’s will save us from our doom. Many may argue about the danger of going to EV’s so quickly and if EV’s will really be able to save mankind for the long term or not?


Although intentions are good as to how best save our planet for generations to come, little has been publicly expounded upon about the impact of trees. Both planting and growing new ones as well as preserving those we already have play a key role in providing clean air to breath and in reducing the carbon footprint we all fear.


Want to really help “save the planet?" Here’s why we need to plant and take care of our trees:

  • Excess carbon dioxide (CO2) is building up in our atmosphere contributing to climate change.Trees absorb CO2, removing and storing the carbon while releasing oxygen back into the air.

  • In one year an acre of trees absorbs the same amount of carbon dioxide produced when you drive a car 26,000 miles.

  • One birch tree can absorb enough CO2 and produce enough oxygen for 1 year for 4 adult people.

  • Trees absorb odors and pollutant gases such as harmful nitrogen oxides, ammonia, sulfur dioxide and filter particles out of the air by trapping them on their leaves and bark.

  • In one year an acre of mature trees can provide enough oxygen for up to 18 people.


  • Trees cool the cities and towns we live in. The average temperature in Los Angeles has risen 6 degrees Fahrenheit on average in the past 50 years while tree removal and tree loss has increased during the same time period. This has largely been the result of road construction, population growth and commercial and housing development. Trees cool our cities by up to 10 degrees year after year by shading our homes and streets and releasing water vapor into the air through their leaves.

  • Three trees placed strategically around a single family home can cut air conditioning use by up to 50% annually.

  • When mulched, trees act like a sponge that filters water naturally and uses it to recharge groundwater supplies.

  • Finally: trees are cost effective solutions to combat the adverse effects of climate change such as extreme heat, droughts and floods. Trees are the only piece of infrastructure that gains value over time.

Want to really enjoy a safe and filtered life? Care for your trees and consider planting a new one!


Quick tip on the best way to care for trees: Prune correctly, water as needed, feed often, treat for diseases and insects and learn all you can about keeping our trees with us for the next generation to enjoy.


Need help taking care of your trees? Call the skilled and certified arborist at Branch Tree Service today, we’re all about caring for our earth!

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