In terms of its public health benefits, a flourishing tree canopy is practically priceless.
"A new research report from the Nature Conservancy argues that for just $8 per person, the U.S. could maintain and then significantly expand the tree canopy of American cities," reports Jared Green.
The report argues for the protection and expansion of urban forests at a time when many urban tree canopies are declining. In total, U.S. cities lose 4 million trees a year, or 1.3 percent of the total tree stock.
The report identifies several studies that put a figure on the multiplier benefit of trees in developed settings—which rack up in terms of heat island effect, water quality, and well being.
The news about all the benefits of urban tree canopies "still hasn’t reached the general public or even arborists, writes Green. "This is reflected in the fact that average U.S. municipal spending on urban forestry has fallen by more than 25 percent since 1980, to around $5.83 per urbanite today."
FULL STORY: The Reason to Expand Urban Forests: Our Health
How the Urban Tree Canopy Can Save Lives in a Heat Wave
New research reveals the direct link between planting more trees and a reduction in heat-related deaths.
How To Preserve Both Affordable Housing and Urban Trees
Housing and environmental activists are calling on the city to commit to a ‘Trees and’ approach, rejecting the perceived conflict between housing affordability and a healthy urban tree canopy.
Research Shows Urban Trees Stave off Depression
A new study shows that regular exposure to trees and green spaces has a powerful impact on depression and mental health.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
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DARTSpace Platform Streamlines Dallas TOD Application Process
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Tesla Protests Release of Documents About Austin Robotaxi Launch
The company seeks to block the release of emails with city officials on the grounds they could contain confidential information and trade secrets.
Fungi to the Rescue: How Mushrooms Are Helping Clean Up Toxic Lands
Fungi are emerging as powerful tools in environmental cleanup, with scientists and community leaders using mushrooms to break down pollutants and restore contaminated soil.
DC, Columbus Bike Share Fleets Introduce Cargo Bikes
Shared mobility is ‘growing up,’ with rental options increasingly expanding to include e-bikes, scooters, and cargo bikes.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
City of Charlotte
Municipality of Princeton
Roanoke Valley-Alleghany Regional Commission
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
US High Speed Rail Association
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
Municipality of Princeton (NJ)