According to Professor T.M. Das of the University of Calcutta, an ordinary tree is worth an amazing US$196,250!

A tree living for 50 years will generate US$31,250 in oxygen, provide air pollution control equal to US$62,500, stem erosion and enrich soil to the tune of US$31,250, play a US$37,500 role in recycling water, and shelter wildlife at a value of another US$33,750.