Tales from a tree-hugger

The term "tree-hugger" is often used to describe an environmental activist, originating from the practice of physically embracing a tree to prevent it from being cut down. I may be liberal on many issues, but I also hold conservative views which have influenced my perspective on environmentalism.

Thus, previously, I dismissed any association with the term “tree-hugger”, believing that tree-huggers were overly idealistic and impractical in their advocacy. However, I have since come to embrace the label and now proudly identify myself as a tree-hugger.

As a proud tree-hugger, I stand with Bishop Alberto Uy of the Diocese of Tagbilaran in condemning the removal of acacia trees to make way for a gasoline station's construction along CPG North Avenue (commonly known as Baguio Drive) in Barangay Taloto, Tagbilaran City. Bishop Uy expressed his concerns in a Facebook post over a week ago, stating, "We have more than enough gas stations in Bohol. More than enough."

Legality does not appear to be the primary issue in the felling of the acacia trees. As reported by the Bohol Chronicle, the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) stated during a hearing conducted by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Bohol on Thursday that no cutting permit was required. This is because acacia trees have been delisted from the category of premium hardwood. The trees were reportedly removed as they obstructed the proposed entrance to the property.

While legality may not be a concern in the felling of the acacia trees, the issue of morality certainly arises. The effects of climate change are now increasingly felt, as we experience more frequent extreme weather events. In fact, I dare say that to cut the trees demonstrates a lack of foresight in architectural design, which ideally should now ensure that both the built environment and the natural landscape coexist harmoniously.

Let me share with you a story, inspired by a combination of real events, to provide some context and insight into my perspective on this issue.

There was once a man in his senior years who had retired in the suburbs in an old house that has a couple of towering trees nearby. Every morning, the old man would rise with the sun, stepping out into the open area surrounding his home to find a blanket of fallen leaves scattered across the ground. Smiling, he'd grab his broom and begin the daily ritual of sweeping the leaves.

One day, the old man’s children returned to visit him. As they spent time together, they noticed the fallen leaves scattered around the house. The eldest child thought it would be best to have the trees cut down to keep the area neat and reduce the burden on their aging father. The old widower, not wanting to disappoint his children, reluctantly agreed.

The trees were cut down, and the once-cool surroundings transformed into a sun-baked, sweltering space. The temperature inside the house increased, forcing the old man to rely on the air-conditioning unit to keep cool. The once-invigorating ritual of sweeping leaves was replaced by a stifling indoor existence. The old man's health began to deteriorate as he no longer enjoyed the exercise, fresh air, and sunlight that had once kept him active and strong.

As the old man’s health declined, his children grew concerned. They eventually realized that their well-intentioned decision to cut down the trees had led to unintended consequences, impacting not only their father's well-being but also the local environment. The trees had provided shade, cooler temperatures, and cleaner air. Their absence had not only deprived the old man of his daily dose of health-boosting activities but also harmed the environment surrounding the house.

While the story may be a fictional account inspired by real events, here are the facts --scientific studies show that individual trees can transpire hundreds of liters of water per day using the sun's energy. This transpiration process has a cooling effect equivalent to 70kWh for every 100L of water transpired, which is sufficient to power two average household central air-conditioning units per day.

Let me now end this story on a happy note. The children recognized their mistake and chose to plant new trees around the house. It would take time for the trees to grow and restore the balance that was lost, but the children were committed to repairing the damage they had done.

In striving for an easier life, we need not destroy the natural gifts that God gave us.