Infographic: Why are local trees important?

Trees: More Than Just Ecology

Trees are not only about ecology. They are about community, memory, and the “spirit of place.” In every Ukrainian village and city, there are trees that have seen more than we have. Local tree species — those that have grown here naturally since ancient times — are especially precious.

Here is why they are so vital for Ukrainian communities:

1. They are part of local identity

Linden trees in the central square, maples lining the road to school, an old oak or a willow by the river — these are not just plants. They are living symbols of a place that shape our collective memory.

2. They strengthen the community’s ecological resilience

Native trees are better adapted to the local climate and soil. They are more resistant to disease, require less maintenance, and live longer. This means they serve the community for decades.

3. They impact mental health

Walking among familiar trees reduces stress and anxiety, providing a sense of security and belonging. This is particularly important for communities that have experienced loss or displacement—a reality that is currently deeply relevant for all Ukrainian communities.

4. They support your region’s specific biodiversity

Local trees provide a home for native birds, insects, and fungi. Instead of displacing the ecosystem, they weave into it naturally. This makes your environment healthier and more ecologically balanced.

5. They bring people together

Planting trees together, caring for a local park, or preserving ancient trees — all of these activities foster cooperation and strengthen the bonds within a community.

By planting local trees, we are doing more than just greening an area. We are strengthening our connection to the land, our culture, and to one another.

You can download the infographic in PDF format for free use at this link.

Currently, our team at the NGO “Ukrainian Ecological Club ‘Green Wave'” has the opportunity to implement a project from the Arbor Day Foundation in a Ukrainian community to mitigate the effects of climate change and enhance ecological resilience. As part of this project, we will also develop methodological guidelines for growing local tree species from seeds, applicable across the entire territory of Ukraine.

Stay tuned for more updates!

The project is funded by the Arbor Day Foundation.