A true friend is one who stands by us during good times as well as bad times. Based on this criterion we may regard trees as our best friends, because they have stood by us for centuries, providing us with food and fuel, and meeting many of our other needs. Trees serve us in a variety of ways. They provide us with medicinal herbs, fruits, nuts, rubber, oil and many other useful articles. They keep our environment clean and fresh.
They use up the carbon dioxide during photosynthesis and give out oxygen. They give us shade throughout the year, and attract rain clouds. The roots of trees also prevent soil erosion. Forests are very important in preserving the balance of the eco-system. They provide sanctuary to wild animals.
Unfortunately, man has been indiscriminately cutting down forests. This has resulted in a considerable decrease in rainfall in some places, and has caused floods in others. The world temperatures are rising because of the decrease of the forest cover. It is said that in olden days, Rajasthan was not a desert as it is today. It has become a desert because of the thoughtless cutting down of trees.
Only in recent years has man begun to realize the great importance of trees. Trees are the lungs of the world, and without them, all species of life on the earth are bound to perish. The only way we can save these faithful friends is by creating an awareness of the importance of trees amongst people. Tree planting, afforestation, and campaigns such as the ‘ Chipko’ movement are some ways by which this goal can be achieved.
Children should be taught the importance of trees right from a very young age. Forest land should be protected, and encroachers should be severely punished. For every tree that we cut, we should grow at least two more trees. Every new residential complex or industry that comes up should be compelled to grow trees on its premises.
The cutting of trees, whether it be for road-widening or for festivals like Holi should not be allowed at all. Children should be made to plant and look after trees in their school and college compounds. ‘ Vanamahotsav’should be encouraged and given wide publicity. Thus, each one can contribute in a small way towards the growing of more trees.
We should do whatever possible to save these true friends of ours. The very survival of our planet depends on trees.