What Species Fights Climate Change, Protects Your Home, And Contributes To Biodiversity?

By Renee A. Thomaier Retired New Jersey State Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator

The answer to this question may not be obvious. In fact, this species contributes to the survival of all living beings. They are efficient machines working day and night to help make the Earth a healthier planet. This species is responsible for improving our environment, which in turn, enhances all life.

If you haven’t already guessed what species I’m talking about, here are a few more clues which should help. The many benefits to living things – they clean our water, filter the air, prevent soil erosion, and give us beauty and grace, just to name a few. If you guessed ‘trees,’ congratulations!

Assisting in lessening the damage that climate change does, trees reduce the greenhouse gas concentration in the atmosphere, removing the carbon dioxide, storing it in its wood. That process is known as ‘carbon sequestration.’ Trees are considered the lungs of the planet. They provide living things with benefits each day attracting birds and wildlife, blocking cold winds in winter, as well as providing shade.

By slowing wind speed, trees help to protect our homes from harmful winds and storms, minimizing damage. Certain trees, such as evergreen, help to prevent noise. The branches and leaves absorb sound, reducing highway noise by 50%. Life cannot exist without trees. Aside from the beauty and seasonal changes to their appearance, they are the ultimate keystone species as they are food sources and provide natural habitat for insects, wildlife, fungi, and create shelter and hiding spaces for birds raising their young.

It’s easy to take the environment we live in for granted. We leave our homes each day into a world connected with all life. It is necessary for us to fi nd ways to co-exist with life around us. Plants, minerals, and other species support us. WE are the stewards of this planet, and with every move we make, the responsibility for all survival, relies on us.

Information for this article was gathered through multiple sources so statistics may vary slightly. To reach me please call 732244-2768.

It is illegal to possess or relocate wildlife for any reason without the proper state and/ or federal permits. Violating New Jersey laws protecting wildlife, which includes harm inflicted upon any animal, are punishable by law.