Time For Greener Cities
Cities around the world are home to about 50 percent of the world’s population and they generate 80 percent of our planet’s greenhouse gases. To help offset that profound environmental impact, cities need to maximize the beneficial use of trees and other greenery near buildings and open spaces. Not only do trees and other plants absorb part of the carbon dioxide emitted in our cities, they also emit fresh oxygen.
When strategically placed near commercial and residential buildings they can block the sun and wind to help reduce energy consumption and air pollution.
A healthy tree canopy around streets and parking lots also can help minimize the heat island trapping effect that plagues most cities on hot days.
Urban forests will play an even more important role as we seek solutions to maximize the quality of life in our cities, while reducing energy consumption and maximizing the uptake of carbon dioxide and other harmful pollutants. Plus, trees are important to the survival of thousands of species of birds and wildlife that inhabit our cities. Urban sprawl must account for the potential displacement and even conflict when these homes are taken away.
The Greener Cities program is partnering with Sacred Seedlings to help reforest urban areas around the world.
If your city would like to join us in a pilot project, we would appreciate the opportunity to speak with you.
The benefits of an urban forestry program are numerous and we will help you pursue grant and sponsorship funding. In some cases, funding may be possible as part of the Clean Development Mechanism with the United Nations.
