Trees enhance aesthetics of urban areas

TAMAN Tun Dr Ismail residents should not take Bukit Kiara for granted, says Pola Singh in “Do more to preserve city’s green lungs” (The Star, March 14). Likewise, all residents in the city should not take the many other hills, ravines, boulevards and parks that are home to millions of trees for granted. This urban forest not only enhances the aesthetics of the city but also provides ecological, social, cultural and economic benefits.

Trees absorb water, clean the air, provide shade, reduce erosion, flooding and cooling costs, and increase property values. They beautify our neighbourhoods and provide privacy. Large tree canopies actually reduce the need for air-conditioning. They slow down water evaporation from our lawns and gardens, thus reducing our water bills during the hot months. Furthermore, when we see trees, we are calmer and able to concentrate better. Studies have shown that humans respond to nature in a positive way.