Cities turn to urban forests to combat climate change
- Martin Ford
- Jun 26
- 1 min read
DAVID ISRAELSON
2019-10-27
Globe and Mail
Keywords: Urban forests, Climate change mitigation, Carbon emissions, Air quality, Biodiversity, Flood risk reduction, Mental health

“Think of green spaces as natural air conditioners,” he says, “but a lot cheaper and longer-lasting than air-conditioning units – and trees don’t burn fuel and emit carbon fumes.”
In response to climate change, cities globally are adopting urban forestry as a strategy to mitigate its impacts. The article highlights Canadian cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Winniepeg, Halifax and Montreal, where non-profit organisations are helping create urban forests. The focus on planting trees and developing green areas within urban environments aims to decrease carbon emissions, mitigate urban heat, and enhance air quality. Additionally, urban forests contribute to biodiversity, flood risk reduction, and mental health improvement, underscoring the multifaceted benefits of integrating nature into cityscapes.
Tags: Urban sustainability, Climate action, Green infrastructure, Environmental health, Urban planning
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