by Charl van der Merwe, Environmental Ethicist. On behalf of Sedgefield Ratepayers Association (Edge Issue 714)
Trees are an integral part of Sedgefield’s urban environment, providing a multitude of benefits that enhance the quality of life for us. What started out as an aesthetic choice is today a necessity for sustainable urban living.
Although we are not an industrial city but a rural town with no industries which cause air pollution, trees play a crucial role in improving air quality. They absorb pollutants such as carbon dioxide, sulphur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides, and release oxygen through the process of photosynthesis. This natural filtration system helps to reduce the levels of harmful gases in the air, making it healthier for residents to breathe.
Moreover, trees contribute to the reduction of the urban heat effect, which will become more apparent with climate change on hand. Cities tend to be warmer than their rural counterparts due to the abundance of concrete and tar, which absorb and retain heat. Trees provide shade and release water vapour through transpiration, which cools the air and helps to lower temperatures. This cooling effect can significantly reduce the need for air conditioning, leading to energy savings and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
In addition to their environmental benefits, our trees also have a positive impact on mental and physical health. Studies have shown that green spaces and tree-lined streets can reduce stress (overlooking the potholes), improve mood, and encourage physical activity, contributing to overall well-being.
In our case, trees enhance the aesthetic appeal of our town. They add beauty and character to our urban areas, not only on the pavements but also in our gardens, making them more attractive places to live and work. The presence of trees can also increase property values.
Most importantly, trees also play a vital role in supporting urban biodiversity. They provide habitats for various species of birds, insects, and other wildlife, contributing to the ecological balance within our town, linking the town space with natural areas. This biodiversity is essential for the resilience of urban ecosystems, helping them to withstand and recover from environmental stresses.
However, there is a constant threat to our natural monuments, and it is not the shot-blast beetle, but the residents of Sedgefield themselves because of the way that we manage our trees.
Tree management demands three important actions:
- establishing trees,
- maintaining trees, and
- removing trees.
This not only relates to the municipal function but also to garden trees.
Walking through town you often see homeowners who, having planted the right tree in the wrong place, then proceed to ruin the tree to improve the view. Trees on pavements do not belong to the homeowner, but are on public space which implies that they belong to the public. Thus it should be the Parks Department responsibility to prune and care for it.
It is time that we demand our Council establish a Sedgefield Tree Management Committee, with ratepayers included as members, with the purpose of:
- Developing and communicating a policy with respect to tree planting, maintenance and removal.
- Establishing urban design criteria for trees.
- Preparing standards and regulations for tree planting.
Permission must be applied for, and granted by the Tree Committee to remove, or prune a tree in a public space, and if someone damages a tree, a fine relating to the value of the tree must be incurred.
We seem intent on accomplishing one thing, the most and best for myself, not for the environment, and not for my neighbour.
“I bought the house for the view and a tree is not going to spoil that view, even if the tree is older than the house.”
In conclusion, only nature, and trees can instil a sense of awe, not houses or bridges, and we are defacing nature at every turn. Trees are invaluable assets to urban landscapes. They offer a wide range of environmental, health, economic, and aesthetic benefits that are essential for sustainable urban living. As our town continues to grow and develop, it is crucial to prioritise the preservation and planting of trees to ensure a healthier and more vibrant urban environment.
Talking Conservation is a conservation-focused column in Sedgefield’s Edge newspaper, sponsored by Drie Valleyen Reserve.