We are witnessing a sea-change in our understanding of the ways forest ecosystems work.  We used to think that trees competed for sun and nutrients in a forest version of survival of the fittest.  But we now know that forests are social places where trees not only communicate and support each other but also interact with other species while they work to protect their collective health. It’s no longer about individual competition but rather about a complex, linked community reacting to its environment. 

 

New research is also revealing the myriad health benefits that humans derive from spending time in forests.  How ironic that as more of the world’s population is moving into cities, knowledge about the positive impact trees have on our health is expanding.  The challenge is to understand and act on the important implications of these new perspectives.  For me, this is a step in that direction. May this site inspire you to do the same.