Did you know that there are currently around 3 billion trees in the UK alone? That’s about 45 trees to every one person! Trees are a fantastic part of our natural ecosystem, and essential for life on this planet. But. amazingly, there are not enough trees in the world, and more are being cut down every day. As business owners, planting trees on your premises can bring you and the planet a whole host of benefits, including actively offsetting your emissions, improve biodiversity and engage with your local community. So, if you have the space, here’s why you should consider planting some trees.
Flood Prevention
Let’s face it, the UK is a very wet place! It rains a lot, and that can have a big impact on your grounds – especially if you’re in one of the many commercial buildings that were built on flood plains.
Flooding and groundwater can be a big problem across the UK, particularly in late winter and early spring, which is when it tends to rain the most. Soil that is more compact and solid will increase the amount of groundwater, and increase your flood risk. Planting trees helps improve the quality of the soil structure. allowing water to move through more freely and reducing groundwater.
Increase Biodiversity
If you plant native UK trees, then not only are you helping improve local air quality, but improving local biodiversity too. We talked in a previous blog about the importance of biodiversity for business parks, so if you want to find out more about that, click here. Native trees are the hub of biodiversity. They co-develop alongside other native species like shrubs, fungi, beetles, insects and other animals, playing host and habitat to thousands of life forms. Oak, ash or birch – as long as it’s a native species of tree, you’re creating a diverse eco-sphere within your premises.
Reduce Pollution
One tree can provide over 115 kilograms of oxygen a year, removing around 4. 5 tonnes of CO2 from the environment In the process. That’s just one tree! Planting multiple trees can significantly improve air quality in the immediate area, which creates a more positive work environment for your employees.
It’s not just air pollution trees can help with. Planting trees across your premises can also reduce the noise impact on both your property and those near you. Trees are great at deadening sound by shortening the distance of sound waves. The branches, leaves, stems and even the wooden trunk of the tree can absorb and deflect sound waves, so you’ll find noises don’t travel as far. This is good news if you‘re located near a motorway or busy public space, or your business generates noise that you want to contain.
Save Money On Energy Bills
Did you know that the energy used by your commercial building can also be affected by trees? the towering structures and leafy canopies provide shade from the hot summer sun, as well as defeating those bitterly cold winter winds. That might not seem like much, but it can significantly reduce the strain on your heating and cooling systems, saving you money in the long run.
Boost Your CSR
Corporate Social Responsibility is something
all businesses should be thinking about. Not just because it’s a good thing, but because it’s a legal requirement. The Companies Act 2006 says that company directors should:
‘Have regard for the impact of the company’s operations on the community and the environment.’
Planting trees is a great way of demonstrating your corporate social responsibility, as well as building your ties with the local community. It showcases your concern for the environment, and providing more green spaces will improve public perception of your business.
At Pod Landscapes, we are a commercial grounds maintenance company providing year-round professional outdoor maintenance and support. We work with businesses all across the south to plan and provide stunning gardens and grounds, delighting staff and visitors alike. For more information, just get in touch with the team today.
