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Save trees for our survival

Save trees for our survival

Trees have a major contribution to the existence of human society and are important for our survival. Trees offer food, shelter, clothing, medicine and other household, industrial and commercial material requirements. Trees provide a natural ecological balance which helps to reduce floods and droughts and prevent soil erosion. More trees also mean the production of more biomass which enhances soil fertility and soil structure. Trees are very essential in minimizing air pollution by converting carbon dioxide into life-giving oxygen and preventing the earth from warming. Lastly, trees balance the ecology, playing a critical role in global biodiversity.

How to save trees

· Minimize the use of all kinds of paper and paper by-products; when possible, reuse or recycle all paper products.

· Support a total log ban in all protected forested areas.

· Support the search for alternative live lihood activities for people living in the upland and in other protected areas. Kaingin practices, which are dependent upon new forested areas, are not sustainable and can lead to the depletion of tree resources.

· Avoid wood-cutting in the lowland and upland areas.

· Collect tree seeds and establish tree nurseries. Use tree seedlings in tree-planting campaigns.

· Organize and mobilize groups to faciIitate the protection, conservation and monitoring of forests and other protected areas. This requires continuous education and advocacy campaigns.

· Establish environmental networks among people's organizations, nongovernmental organizations, academe, business groups, religious organizations and churches, individuals and concerned government agencies.

· Enhance the political will of government agencies which have a mandate to enforce existing environmental laws. Lobby congress and other policymakers for the establishment and enforcement of environmental policies.

How to propagate and maintain trees

· Whenever possible, select and use locally available and adaptable seeds for lowland and midland areas. Plant medicinal and fruit trees and other trees that could generate immediate economic returns.

· For a higher survival rate, plant seeds in a tree nursery. Use black plastic bag, when available.

· Transplant seedlings in suitable soil type and appropriate locations. Be careful not to touch or damage the roots when transplanting.

· Water the trees regularly. (Most soil indicates proper watering practices.)

· Plant replacement trees of at least three years prior to cutting down the mature trees. Also plant trees after strong winds, typhoon, landslides, etc.

· Visit your trees regularly. Ensure proper fertilization and weed control. Nurture the trees to ensure proper growth.

· Fence off the trees to keep out animals and children.

· Learn and observe special propagation and maintenance requirements of trees that you plant.

Source:

Green Alert-Negros Environmental Network Leaflets. M.A. Velasco, 1992.

Ideas for Action:

A Technology Information Kit, November 23-28, 1992