Trees of Life: Science and Faith Protecting Trees and Our Planet

Recent studies have shown that hundreds of tree species around the world are threatened with extinction, including as many as 1 in 6 species in the United States. This trend, if unchecked, would be disastrous for life on Earth. Trees not only play a major role in most terrestrial ecosystems, but, as carbon sinks, they are key to solving the climate crisis. Urban trees not only improve air quality and reduce the heat-trapping effect of cities but have been shown to reduce violence and improve mental health. This session, featuring both scientists and faith leaders, highlights how science and faith can work hand in hand to help protect trees for the sake of us all. Building on a conference held in April that brought leading scientists and faith leaders together, this session presents the threats trees face, their role in ecosystems, faith communities, and human society, and what faith-based organizations and people of faith can do.