We All Need Trees Art Project

Trees are vital, providing us with oxygen, clean air and water, food, shelter, medicines, and resources, while also supporting biodiversity and mitigating climate change.

My country, Canada, has a vast and abundant forest resource, covering approximately 35% of the country, and containing 9% of the world's forests. Canada is the third-most forested country in the world by area and holds a significant portion of the world's boreal and temperate forests. Across the country, Canadians have deep connections with forests—valuing, managing and using them in different ways. 

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For this art project, I challenged my students to illustrate, in any media, why we all need trees. We brainstormed and wrote down ideas. There are so so many!

Clean Air and Water:

Trees absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen, improving air quality, and their roots help filter and retain water, improving water quality. 

Climate Change Mitigation:

Trees absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and store it, helping to combat climate change. 

Soil Conservation: Tree roots help prevent soil erosion, keeping the soil healthy and fertile. 

Wildlife Habitat:

Trees and forests provide habitat for a wide variety of plants and animals, supporting biodiversity. 

Water Cycle Regulation:

Trees help regulate the water cycle by absorbing and releasing water, which can help prevent flooding and droughts. 

Moderating Local Climate:

Trees provide shade, which can help cool down areas, and they can also act as windbreaks, protecting areas from strong winds. 

Food and Resources:

Trees provide us with fruits, nuts, timber, and other resources that are used for food, shelter, and fuel. 

Mental and Physical Health:

Spending time in nature, including among trees, can have positive effects on mental and physical health, reducing stress and improving mood. 

Economic Benefits:

Forests and trees support local economies through tourism, timber production, and other industries. 

Aesthetic and Recreational Value:

Trees and forests provide beauty and recreational opportunities, such as hiking, camping, and birdwatching. 

Students sketched out their ideas on scrap paper. Then created their good copies on 12 x 18" paper. They could use any media they wanted. I love the variety of results!