Trees are precious resources. Every part of it plays a role in our survival. The Roots Prevent soil erosion, thereby maintaining its fertility Hold moisture, thereby conserving groundwater Used for making medicines Absorb water from the soil The Leaves Convert carbon dioxide to oxygen, making it possible for us to breathe and live Convert the sun's energy into food through photosynthesis Provide fodder for cattle and manure for plants Litter the ground, increasing water infiltration into the soil The Branches Provide firewood Firewood accounts for 70% of cooking fuel in villages and 50% in urban areas of India. 1.2 kg of firewood is required to cook 1 kg of food. Rural India depends on firewood, because it is free. The Flowers Used by birds and insects for pollination Provide nectar for insects and drugs Used for making dyes The Fruits and Nuts Provide food for people and animals The Trunk Provides timber Provides pulp for making paper Used for making medicine and yarn Tapped for latex (as in rubber) The Tree Provides shade, thereby bringing down the temperature Acts as a barrier against noise Absorbs air pollutants Provides a home for birds, insects and animals The tree is an entire industry we must preserve it We cut trees for : The alternatives are : Firewood and charcoal Using only the branches or alternative energy sources such as bio-gas, solar and wind power Pulp and paper Recycling paper and using agricultural wastes, to make paper Timber for building construction Steel, a renewable material, for furniture Source : C. P. R. Environmental Education Centre (CPREEC)