After a brutal winter, folks in Massachusetts and up and down the East Coast are eager for spring. One way to celebrate its emergence is by planting a tree, whether through an arranged project or simply in your yard.

Our advocates at RainforestMaker know that planting trees locally is one way to improve environmental stability by reducing the risk of global warming. The warming of the planet has been accelerated in recent years by the enormous amount of deforestation occurring in the Amazon. New research by the World Resources Institute reports that Earth loses 40 soccer fields’ worth of forest land every single minute of every day.

Lest you think these recent cold snaps are proof that global warming is a myth, consider that California recently noted its warmest winter in recorded history. So did Tucson, Arizona. Similar record-breaking high temperatures were noted in New Zealand and Australia. In fact, the National Weather Service reports that globally, January 2014 was the fourth-warmest on record.

Trees are the planet’s natural climate regulators. Planting trees can help halt climate change because they remove carbon dioxide from the air, help store carbon and release oxygen into the atmosphere. Additionally, they provide a cooling shade, prevent soil erosion and help purify the air and water.

Planting a tree near your home can help save energy by reducing your fuel costs for air conditioning in the summer and heat in the winter. The U.S. Forest Service Center for Urban Forest Research reports that with three trees placed properly on your property, you can reduce your energy use by 30 percent. In your community, a greener community is one that is, on average, cooler. Neighborhoods that have well-shaded streets can be up to 10 degrees cooler than those without trees. Cars parked on shaded streets will emit fewer emissions.

Also, children who live in communities that are well-shaded are less likely to suffer from UV-B sun ray exposure, and are therefore less likely to develop deadly forms of skin cancer. Trees also serve as sound barriers, blight reducers and serve as a vital habitat for sustaining native wildlife. They also heighten property values.

• The USDA Forest Service recommends that for planting trees in the spring time, it’s important to consider the following:
• Select a site that has good soil, light and water conditions for sustained growth. Beware of utility lines that are buried.
• Choose the right kind of tree. Know what is native to your area, and find one that will thrive in your chosen location.
• Find a good quality tree when choosing one from a nursery.
• Research how to properly plant and care for the tree. Seek professional help if necessary. This will ensure the greatest chance for a tree’s survival.

At RainforestMaker, we have planted more than 30,000 trees both locally and in the Amazon Rainforest. Our eventual goal is to plant more than 2 million. Donations and volunteers are what are what will ultimately drive our success.