Trees were on Earth before the first human was born. They serve many economical and aesthetic purposes, in addition to giving people a feeling of serenity, peacefulness, and tranquility. Unfortunately, climate change is affecting the tree canopy and forests. Many areas are experiencing too little rainfall (or too much), and these alterations to the atmosphere affect plants and the ecosystem.
Less Water Absorption
Due to higher than normal temperatures, plants are not absorbing the water to which they’ve become accustomed. Some plants can adapt to a drastic change of temperature and/or arid climates, but others might not survive the change.
Carbon Dioxide/Oxygen Emission
Trees hold carbon dioxide and give off oxygen within normal temperatures. The “Greenhouse Effect” can increase environmental temperatures and abnormally raise the respiratory rate of trees, affecting the photosynthesis process. As a result, trees will be unable to provide additional oxygen, but will add extra carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.
Photosynthesis Problems
The sun can dry out leaves faster than water from the soil can replenish them. An abnormal photosynthesis occurs because the stomata closes in leaves, preventing sunlight from dehydrating the water inside. As a result, the leaves and tree starve.
Precipitation Shifts
Severe rain and flooding in some areas (and drought elsewhere) have cataclysmic effects. Flooding can either wash away trees’ nutrients or accumulate the nutrients and/or pollutants in one area, depending on water sources. Drought has worse consequences. Lack of water prevents trees from producing sap and dries out huge areas, increasing the possibility of massive forest fires.
Great Northern ReGreenery cares about our trees and environment. Call us at (905) 755-7444 or send an email for more information on how to save your trees from the damage or injuries caused by global warming and climate change.