By Aseelah al Kiyumi
Tree Day, which is known also as Arbor Day, underscores the significance of trees and their preservation. This annual event serves as a reminder of the pivotal role trees play in safeguarding our environment and human well-being.
The Sultanate of Oman has undertaken a commendable initiative to plant 10 million trees, a project conceived in continuation of the Environment Agency's ongoing efforts to instill awareness among the community about preserving native vegetation, combating desertification, and expanding green spaces within the country. Launched on January 8, 2020, in collaboration with the Petroleum Development Oman. This initiative embodies a holistic approach, drawing support from various sectors, including government, private enterprises, and civil society.
Trees are quintessential to life on Earth, offering an array of benefits to both the environment and humanity. Tree Day serves as a poignant reminder of air quality improvement as trees play a pivotal role in absorbing harmful gases like carbon dioxide and, in turn, releasing life-giving oxygen. This natural process aids in purifying the air, mitigating environmental pollution, and fostering improved human health.
They are agents of environmental and climate regulation. Forests and trees act as nature's climate regulators, maintaining ecological equilibrium. They help moderate temperatures, reducing the heat during summer, and absorb rainfall, minimising flood risks.
They are equally important factor for biodiversity conservation. Forests and trees serve as habitats for diverse wildlife, providing shelter and sustenance to a plethora of species. This is instrumental in preserving biodiversity on our planet.
They also work as natural resource provider. Trees offer us a myriad of natural resources, including wood, fruits, and medicinal herbs. Additionally, they play a pivotal role in the natural water cycle, safeguarding arable land.
They are important agents of aesthetic and tranquil landscapes. Beyond their practical benefits, trees enhance the aesthetics of our surroundings, offering a source of natural beauty and tranquillity. Sitting under a tree on a serene summer day can be an immensely relaxing experience.
Despite the irreplaceable value of trees, contemporary times bear witness to the relentless deforestation and logging, fueled by industrial expansion and unsustainable agriculture. Arbor Day assumes a critical role in raising awareness about tree preservation and the environmental challenges we face.
There are three primary categories of trees, each with its unique attributes. Fruit trees, such as citrus trees bearing oranges and lemons, almond trees yielding almonds, and pomegranate and apple trees, provide nourishment for people worldwide.
Ornamental trees come in a variety of forms, carefully selected to suit different climates and environments. These include conifers, juniper, hawthorn, and woody trees. Notably, these trees maintain their leaves year-round, offering not only visual appeal but also psychological comfort. Their importance extends beyond sustenance to nurturing the soul, stimulating the mind, and fostering creativity.
Forest trees, planted in areas unsuitable for fruit-bearing trees, offer an invaluable contribution by enhancing landscapes and preventing the land from remaining barren. This is particularly important in rugged and rocky terrains.
Caring for all these tree types is essential to preserving their species and prolonging their lifespan. It is crucial to refrain from causing harm to these trees through cutting or polluting the soil in which they grow, as the repercussions of such actions extend to all of humanity.
We must collectively make a concerted effort to protect trees and forests, thereby safeguarding the health of our planet. Arbor Day serves as a poignant reminder of the need to cherish nature and harness its resources judiciously and responsibly.
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