Trees play a central role in the existence and development of human life, maintaining the delicate environmental balance necessary for life on the planet.
Typically, when we think of trees from this perspective, we imagine jungles and forests, but it's in cities where they play a crucial role every day, as around 80% of Mexico's population, and almost 60% of the world's population, lives in urban areas. Hence the importance of raising awareness about their conservation.
To better understand their importance, it's necessary to know more about them and their benefits; for example, the help they provide in reducing the risk of flooding. During storms, trees help absorb some of the rainwater that runs into urban drainage systems and return it to the groundwater. Furthermore, their roots help keep the soil firm, preventing landslides or debris slides, especially where there are raised ground surfaces.
Another benefit is the energy aspect, since if you properly plant one or more trees around a building, you can keep it cool in hot weather and contain the cold wind in winter, significantly reducing energy consumption in both cases.
They are also useful for absorbing gases, polluting particles, and noise. If the tree bears fruit, it provides food, protection, and a habitat for urban animals.
Their importance makes them indispensable in any human settlement, as they increase property values, mitigate the heat generated by pavements, and it's proven that spending time near trees improves physical and mental health, increasing energy levels and lowering stress and blood pressure.
At the Bepensa Foundation and Bepensa, we care about trees and the environment, striving to ensure that more and more people enjoy their benefits. We do all of this through decisive reforestation efforts thanks to our volunteer programs and our protected facilities, such as the Bepensa Biopark and the Bepensa Garden. These efforts include the following:
From 2016 to 2017 we planted more than 1,000 trees.
So far in 2018, we have planted 320 trees through various Bepensa volunteer initiatives.
In Bepensa Biopark:
We maintain and care for 80 endemic species of vegetation.
Within the 1,000 m2 of green areas, we have a nursery where you can adopt trees to plant.
At Bepensa Garden:
A wide variety of birds visit us on their migratory route, thanks to the diversity of plants and trees we care for and maintain.
Thanks to its beautiful green areas and facilities, we welcome an average of 10,000 people a year.
This is how, through decisive actions, the Bepensa Foundation and Bepensa maintain our commitment to the environment and the conservation of our natural resources.
Sources of information:
Coca-Cola Journey
Bepensa Sustainability Report
FAO (ONU)
