Mothers Out Front Newton is partnering with Protect Newton Trees to raise awareness of the significant role mature trees play in fighting climate change and the need to protect them from threats such as construction activity, gas leaks, and drought.
The “Be A Tree Protector” exhibit at the Newton Free Library (330 Homer St., Newton) focuses on the climate benefits of mature trees and how much each tree contributes to Newton’s shared green infrastructure.
“We know that large trees help to mitigate flooding by absorbing stormwater,” says Indian Ridge Road resident Judy Boroschek. “When my next door neighbors demolished their house, they also cut down a large old linden tree as well as three very tall pine trees. Subsequently, during the very heavy rains last December, our basement flooded. We had never had water coming in from that area before.”
A tree cools the air by evaporation. Its shade cools down a heat island created by pavement and buildings as well as saves energy inside, especially if the trees shade the roof and windows. The bigger the tree and the denser the tree canopy the better. Neighborhoods without shade trees suffer from heat islands.
“I have always loved the five large shade trees in my backyard,” says Charlotte Road resident Barbara Divitto. “Even as the summers have grown hotter with climate change, our yard and our house stay cool and we hardly have to use our AC.”
Trees also clean the air by absorbing pollutants, provide wildlife habitat and support biodiversity. And, trees are nature’s way to capture carbon dioxide.
Curious about how the trees in your yard are fighting climate change? Find calculation instructions online at TREE PROTECTORS and send your results to ProtectNewtonTrees@gmail.com to share on the online photo gallery.
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