With 80% of all life on land existing in forests, the health of our planet is directly tied to forest ecosystems that are thriving. But our forests are under attack unlike any other time in human history.
We have lost more forest land in the last 50 years than during any other time in history. In 2023, 9 million acres of forests vanished from deforestation or climate-related conditions, like worsening wildfires. When we lose trees, the delicate balance of biodiversity is at stake.
How trees support biodiversity
Habitat
Forests provide complex habitats supporting an array of plant and animal species. Trees and forests offer food, shelter, and even migration routes. From the canopy to forest floor, these natural areas foster life and maintain our world’s ecological balance.
Clean water
Forests play a crucial role in maintaining water quality and supply globally. Trees prevent soot, soil, and chemicals from entering our waterways, promoting healthier plants and animals that call forests home. They absorb and store rainwater, and keep our rivers flowing downstream. And with more than half of America’s drinking water first running through forests, it means cleaner water for you, too.
Air quality
Forests are vital for global air quality and clean the air we breathe by absorbing massive amounts of carbon from the atmosphere and replacing it with oxygen. Forests also filter out other airborne pollution and particulate matter, improving the air quality in nearby cities and communities.
Soil
Trees along waterways are riparian buffers, acting as natural filters that prevent soil erosion. They even keep chemicals like fertilizers from seeping into our lakes and rivers downstream. Fallen leaves provide food for the soil's microorganisms, creating a more fertile environment for other plants to thrive.
Planet health starts with science
We use science and data to determine where our efforts can have the most impact for the planet’s health. Then we activate the knowledge and expertise of our global planting partner network, built over five decades. These are our friends on the ground with shovel-ready projects waiting to get trees planted the right way.
This approach has guided us to a few key priority regions that hold significance to the health of the planet, a few of which may be closer to home than you might think.
Take Action Today
Trees are needed now more than ever to slow climate change, improve biodiversity, strengthen our communities, and provide equitable access to green space. And the Arbor Day Foundation is ready to plant trees at the scale needed in this moment.
How to support our mission
Founded in 1972, the Arbor Day Foundation is a global nonprofit dedicated to planting trees. Our strength is in network — a diverse group of individuals, municipalities, corporations, and planting organizations that enable us to plant trees around the world.
Fighting climate change
Learn how trees and forests are working on the frontlines to help slow climate change.
Strengthening communities
Learn why trees in cities and towns are vital to help ensure communities thrive.