Urban Trees Are Vital in an Era of Extreme Heat

Urban trees are essential for cooling public spaces, promoting physical activity, and protecting vulnerable populations from extreme heat.

2 minute read

August 29, 2024, 6:00 AM PDT

By Clement Lau


Cyclist and runner on paved bike and pedestrian path in a park in Boston with fall colors on trees.

jStock / Adobe Stock

As climate change intensifies, record-breaking heat has become a leading public health threat, not only by causing direct heat-related deaths but also by discouraging outdoor physical activity. The rising temperatures make parks, streets, and recreational spaces dangerously hot, posing risks to those who rely on these areas for exercise and leisure. Maintaining physical activity is crucial for both physical and mental health, yet the increasing heat threatens to reduce the number of people engaging in outdoor activities, particularly in urban areas where shade is scarce.

As Nadina Galle and Jad Daley share in this article, urban trees offer a powerful solution to this problem by providing natural cooling through shade and evapotranspiration, which can lower temperatures by up to 45 degrees Fahrenheit. By strategically planting trees in key recreational areas, cities can create cooler, more comfortable environments that encourage safe outdoor activity even during extreme heat. Initiatives like Phoenix's “Cool Corridors” demonstrate how targeted tree planting can address both environmental and social equity, ensuring that all neighborhoods have access to the cooling benefits of trees.

In addition to promoting active lifestyles, trees play a critical role in protecting vulnerable populations, such as children and the elderly, from the dangers of extreme heat. Shaded public spaces allow for safer outdoor activities, reducing the reliance on air conditioning, which many cannot afford. With growing investments in urban forestry, such as the $1.5 billion from the Inflation Reduction Act, expanding tree cover in disadvantaged neighborhoods is essential for creating heat-resilient communities and safeguarding public health in a warming world.

Monday, August 26, 2024 in Medium

portrait of professional woman

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Close-up of park ranger in green jacket and khaki hat looking out at Bryce Canyon National Park red rock formations.

National Parks Layoffs Will Cause Communities to Lose Billions

Thousands of essential park workers were laid off this week, just before the busy spring break season.

February 18, 2025 - National Parks Traveler

Paved walking path next to canal in The Woodlands, Texas with office buildings in background.

Retro-silient?: America’s First “Eco-burb,” The Woodlands Turns 50

A master-planned community north of Houston offers lessons on green infrastructure and resilient design, but falls short of its founder’s lofty affordability and walkability goals.

February 19, 2025 - Greg Flisram

Small rural USPS post office in manufactured one-story grey building with American flag in front.

Delivering for America Plan Will Downgrade Mail Service in at Least 49.5 Percent of Zip Codes

Republican and Democrat lawmakers criticize the plan for its disproportionate negative impact on rural communities.

February 12, 2025 - Cowboy State Daily

Chicago

Test News Post 1

This is a summary

April 8 - 2TheAdvocate.com

test alt text

Test News Headline 46

Test for the image on the front page.

March 5 - Cleantech blog

Military humvee driving through gate at Fort Indiantown Gap Natl Guard training center in Pennsylvania surrounded by winter trees and dead leaves.

Balancing Bombs and Butterflies: How the National Guard Protects a Rare Species

The National Guard at Fort Indiantown Gap uses GIS technology and land management strategies to balance military training with conservation efforts, ensuring the survival of the rare eastern regal fritillary butterfly.

February 24 - Esri Blog