With global temperatures on the rise, experts are increasingly advocating for the power of trees as a solution to combatting heat. A recent symposium titled “Urban Forestry for Changing Times” brought together over 150 arborists, scientists, and community members in California to focus on the critical need for increased tree planting.
The symposium highlighted the crucial role trees play in mitigating extreme heat, especially in urban environments. Edith de Guzman, a researcher at the UCLA Cooperative Extension, stressed the urgent need for action, stating that “We’re entering into unprecedented extremes, longer heat waves, hotter heatwaves, more frequent heatwaves. Trees are not just decorative but essential for keeping us cool.”
Research underscores the significant impact of trees on temperature regulation. Tree canopies can reduce ground temperatures by 11 to 19 degrees Fahrenheit compared to areas without tree cover. This cooling effect is attributed to their ability to block direct sunlight and provide evaporative cooling, releasing moisture into the air.
Cindy Blain, director of the nonprofit California ReLeaf, emphasized the vital role of urban forestry in creating cooler cities. “Trees are super critical for keeping cities cooler, and we need to make sure we don’t cover everything up with pavement,” she said.
Blain emphasized the importance of strategic planting and proper care, highlighting the unique challenges faced by California’s climate. “We also have to make sure that we water the trees,” she explained. “A lot of people think that you can just plant a tree and leave it. That works back east, not in California.”
The symposium underscored the life-saving potential of increased tree cover, particularly in underserved communities. “Communities that happen to live in neighborhoods that are shaded by trees have less heat-related illnesses and death,” de Guzman noted.
The event served as a powerful reminder of the importance of prioritizing urban forestry as a critical strategy for mitigating the impacts of climate change and creating healthier, more resilient communities. As temperatures continue to rise, investing in trees offers a tangible and effective solution for a cooler, more sustainable future.
