Trees, gardens and grass provide habitat for all kinds of birds and wildlife, prevent soil erosion, help to absorb pollutants, provide shade, help to cool people and property, reduce utility usage, reduce noise pollutions and add to the mental and physical well-being of people.

 
For example, a BBC News article recently reported that a study conducted in the United Kingdom found that “just five minutes of exercise in a ‘green space’ such as a park can boost mental health….Study leader Jules Pretty, a researcher at the University of Essex, said those who were generally inactive, or stressed, or with mental illness would probably benefit the most from ‘green exercise.’ Employers, for example, could encourage staff in stressful workplaces to take a short walk at lunchtime in the nearest park to improve mental health.”