Economic value of urban trees
The value of urban trees was the subject of a recent talk in Drouin attracting more than 50 people.
Greg Moore from the University of Melbourne was invited to give the talk by the Committee for Drouin who are developing a register of significant trees in the town.
Dr Moore spoke about the importance of putting an economic value on urban trees because they then have value in terms of decision making.
“If you don’t put a monetary value on trees then people think if they are cut down, we can replace them,” he said. “They don’t realise that to maintain our trees is much better value. It’s important to manage them as real assets.”
During the talk, Dr Moore shared research and data from across Australia and around the world to dispel myths around trees.
He said trees have aesthetic value but also help humans feel cooler and happier with scientists working to quantify this with research. Those in attendance heard trees in residential area could reduce the ambient summer temperatures by up to eight degrees.
Dr Moore also said tree shade could prolong the life of road and asphalt roads by three to four times.
He also discussed carbon absorption, oxygen production, reducing wind speed, noise reduction, increased water and soil holding capacities mitigating erosion and flooding, as well as the health benefits of living in shaded leafy suburbs.