4 Reasons Street Trees Matter

In honor of COP30 starting today, we’re sharing 4 reasons why street trees matter! Street trees are powerful tools to combat the effects of climate change. You can help grow our urban forest by raising awareness around the importance of street trees. #1 Provide shade and cooling As heat waves become more common, trees help to reduce urban heat effects by shading sidewalks, streets, and homes. That means lower indoor temperatures, less strain on vulnerable residents, and reduced energy use.

#2 Create storm and flood resilience When we remove concrete to plant street trees, it reduces impermeable surface area that directs stormwater into our sewer system. Trees' roots also absorb and slow rainfall, reducing runoff and helping neighborhoods avoid flooding and overwhelmed storm drains. #3 Improve air quality and health Tree canopies filter pollutants and capture dust, which creates cleaner air in our neighborhoods. That's good news for children, older adults, and anyone with respiratory vulnerabilities, especially as wildfires increase. 

#4 Build social and community resilience A healthy urban forest creates stronger, happier neighborhoods. When people feel safe outdoors and connect with each other, it builds our collective capacity to adapt when heavy rains come or temperatures climb.