Why we should all be treehuggers: How trees benefit us

Treehuggers: you've heard of them, you've laughed at the idea. But they're really on to something. Besides the shade they provide on hot summer days, trees are a real asset to the planet. 

Here are some of the ways they've been keeping it real since, well, forever. 

1. They help us breathe. And get rid of carbon. 

Ok, this you learned in 3rd-grade science. But really, it's the main highlight in a tree's resume. One large tree can provide a day's worth of oxygen for FOUR people. That's impressive. And in a year, a healthy tree can store as much as 13 pounds of carbon, meaning trees are a great way to offset all of our dirty carbon habits like driving. 

2. They're a natural air conditioner. 

Tree's are all about throwing shade -- but you already knew that. What is really cool is that when water evaporates from the leaves of trees, the chemical process of converting water to vapor removes energy from the air. One single tree can cool as effectively as 10 room-sized air conditioners running 20 hours a day. 

3. They're a great recovery drug. 

Apparently, hospital patients recovering from surgery with views of trees out their windows have been shown to recover more quickly, take fewer painkillers and leave the hospital earlier. Now you know: demanding a room with a view is really good for you. 

4. They’re worth thousands.

The property values of homes with landscaping are 5 - 15% higher than those without trees. Start seeing green and plant one today! 

If you're lacking time, a good shovel or a green thumb, let Marc Skid help! Two of our 4-star charities, Amazon Conservation Association and Carbon-Fund, will plant 4 trees with purchase of one pair of underwear. Buy 3 pairs and they'll plant 12 trees! Let's start digging! Make your Marc!