Essays

Trees are extremely important for us. They give us shade, fruit, gum and medicines. Leaves of some trees are used as fodder for animals.

The most important thing that the trees give us is oxygen. In the light of the sun, they absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and release oxygen which is essential for the life of all living beings. Thus, they keep the atmosphere clear. This process is known as photosynthesis.

Trees cause coolness in the air. This helps in causing rain. Thus, the regions such as the Sahara and Rajasthan where trees are sparse have only scanty rainfall.

Trees also help in checking soil erosion, Mostly, there is a thick undergrowth below and around the trees.

This happens most often in forest areas. Because of this undergrowth, soil does not get eroded quickly.

This undergrowth also helps in controlling floods'. The rushing water of rivers and rivulets, particularly in hilly areas gets controlled in the area where there is a thick growth of trees and plants. Thus, the villages and towns close by are saved from flash and heavy floods.

A number of industries also depend on trees. Such are paper industry, match industry, boat-making industry, housing industry, etc.

Resin and rubber and quinine are also obtained from trees. We also get spices and dry fruit from trees.

Trees add greatly to the scenic beauty of a place. Much of the beauty of nature is because of trees. Birds also make their nests on trees and eat their fruit.

Thus, trees are very useful to man and birds. We should not cut down trees; we should grow

rather more of them.