Trees and woodlands are an extremely important part of the Sutton’s landscape and the well being of residents and visitors; the benefits of which are various (covering many different areas of Sutton’s environment and society).
Environmental benefits:
- absorbing airborne pollutants like ozone, carbon, sulphur and nitrogen dioxides and acting as carbon sinks (converting carbon dioxide into plant tissue)
- filtering the air of dust, other particulates and noise
- producing oxygen
- reducing localized extremes in temperature (helping to cool the air in summer and warm the air in winter)
- reducing the effects of flash floods
- providing habitats for a variety of wildlife
Economic benefits:
- increasing property and land values (by 5-10% for residential or commercial properties and 27% for undeveloped land (with mature trees present))
- providing a sustainable source of woodchip bio-fuel (as a by-product of tree works) and a source of compost (leaf matter) for use in parks
- can provide employment through all aspects of the industry
Social and health benefits:
- providing a more beautiful setting, especially in urban areas
- helps reduce stress levels throughout the borough
- softens and brings colour and character to built up environment
- releases scents and aromas that can promote a positive emotional state which contributes to better health and well being