Cutting any trees or even clearing a piece of land isn't just the sad loss of many trees, but surrounding trees and the ecosystem are in peril because of it.
Don't put anything over the roots of a tree. That causes suffocation because roots need air as much as they need water. Don't bury the tree in additional soil or under rocks. FILL KILLS.
Do these 10 things for trees and you will be a Hero Tree Protector!
Clean up not only the trash around trees but also the legal, governmental, and business culture concerning the environment. And, we Tree Protectors can help each other do it.
Leaving leaves--shredded or whole--gives trees what they need. And it looks just fine. They are better than mulch.