Since the COVID-19 pandemic put a halt to traveling and indoor gatherings, many people turned to the outdoors to spend quality time. Even as restrictions have lifted, people are increasingly spending more time outside and placing more value on the outdoors.

Yet, in areas across the United States experiencing wildfires and high levels of pollution, outdoor air quality can pose health risks. According to the American Lung Association, ozone pollution has a serious effect on the respiratory system, both in the short-term and over the course of years of exposure.

The American Lung Association’s “State of the Air” 2021 report found that more than 40% of Americans—more than 135 million people— are living in places with unhealthy levels of ozone or particle pollution.

As part of a longstanding commitment to sustainability, 3M innovates to provide solutions for climate issues such as air quality. 3M invented the roofing granule technology that made the world’s first smog-reducing shingle possible. In fact, 3M™ Smog-reducing Granules remove smog gases from the air with the same effect as trees. Since the technology’s launch three years ago, the number of smog-reducing roofs installed can be compared to the smog-fighting potential of over 800,000 trees.

While putting roofs to work for homeowners is a great option, nothing can replace getting actual trees in the ground, which is why 3M is excited to announce a donation to One Tree Planted, an environmental nonprofit dedicated to global reforestation, to plant 10,000 trees this year in U.S. National Forests. 

“This investment in One Tree Planted allows us to amplify the importance of improving air quality and helping the environment,” said Josh Orman, Senior Manager, Business Development. “Our hope is that homeowners become inspired when they choose a new roof to not only select a roof that can make a positive impact for the environment but to also take one extra step and consider their own donation to plant trees to make an even bigger impact.”

One Tree Planted is a reforestation nonprofit committed to making it simple for anyone to help the environment by planting trees. Founded in 2014, the organization has more than doubled their impact year over year and works with global planting partners across 43 countries to help plant trees for biodiversity and environmental recovery.

Through the program, 3M will make a $10,000 donation. Each dollar will go toward planting one tree – providing 10,000 trees for reforestation efforts with the U.S. National Forests. 3M hopes to make this an annual investment and leverage the collaboration to inspire others to donate, as well.

"We're proud to work with partners like 3M that share our commitment to the environment,” said Diana Chaplin, Canopy Director of One Tree Planted. “The trees planted will help create a healthier climate while contributing to critical reforestation efforts and restoring land for nature, people, and wildlife across U.S. National Forests."

To learn more about 3M™ Smog-reducing Granules, click here. To learn more about One Tree Planted and 3M’s donation, visit 3mtrees.raisely.com.