Urban areas with little vegetation can experience temperatures of up to seven degrees higher than those with tree cover. This translates into significantly higher energy costs to cool buildings. Properly planted trees can cut heating and cooling costs by as much as 12 percent and reduce overall power demand. Excessive or unwanted sound has negative physical and psychological effects. Noise can come from many sources, especially roads and highways.
Trees can play an important role in deadening unwanted noise.
Sound waves are absorbed by a tree s leaves, branches, and twigs. Studies suggest that belts of trees 100 feet wide and 45 feet long can cut highway noise in half. 6 Economic Benefits Trees are a major economic asset to a community, building a positive community image which is a key factor in attracting residents, businesses, and visitors alike. Recent surveys indicate that nine out of 10 commercial real estate appraisers believe that trees boost the sales appeal of commercial properties and add significantly to their value. Some studies suggest attractive tree-lined commercial centers are more desirable than those areas without trees that have direct access to main roadways.