BIODIVERSITY
1 MILLION TREES IN A FOREST OF BUILDINGS
MISSISSAUGA, ONTARIO, CANADA
Photo: City of Mississauga
Restoration efforts change the look, feel and culture of Mississauga, Ontario, and other cities that are transitioning from past industries, making them more enjoyable and livable for residents and visitors.
What's
changing
A 2019 Canadian government report found that the country is warming at twice the rate of the rest of the world. As heatwaves, storms and other weather events grow more intense, urban forests are playing a key role in how cities and residents can adapt to heightened risks.
What's already
possible
Since 2013, an ambitious plan in Mississauga, Ontario, has been working with residents, community organizations and businesses, including the tourism industry, to plant 1 million new trees in the city before 2032. Not only do trees cool the air through evapotranspiration, but trees help to mitigate flooding, absorb carbon dioxide, filter pollutants, support biodiversity and promote general well being for residents. As the city marks its 50th anniversary, replenishing the trees lost due to past industries is changing Mississauga for residents and visitors alike.
Seizing
the opportunity
The program counts any tree planted on private property, as part of urban planning, or in one of its 500 parks toward the 1 million goal. When anyone plants a tree, they register it to be part of the official tally. Native trees are preferred, and the city provides guides about popular native trees and how to select the best ones for different properties. Community members plant trees at special events, homes and commercial properties. Anyone can request support to host a tree-planting event. The program also provides opportunities for volunteers to care for trees in city parks.
Standout
tactic
A website tracks the number of trees planted by individuals, organizations and schools. As of June 2024, one school has planted over 3,000 trees, and one person has planted more than 200.
How
it helps
There are now 2.1 million trees in Mississauga, and over 554,000 are a direct result of the program. The initiative is on track to meet its goal to enhance Mississauga’s natural heritage system, which is connected through more than 400 kilometers (250 miles) of multi-use trails.
Diving
deeper
As tree planting and restoration programs like this become more popular, how can cities ensure that all neighborhoods benefit equally no matter their resources?
Increasing
impact
Urban growth can often lead to loss of habitat and mature trees. In countries with housing shortages, taking existing pockets of urban forests, micro-habitats and tree canopies into account when designing and building denser housing can save the resources that would be required to replant. Preserving mature trees means the community can benefit from them sooner.
Traveling
better
Travel is inherently carbon intensive. Whether you are taking a mini-break or an annual vacation, consider ways to minimize your impact by staying longer in one place, reconsidering how you travel to the destination, and supporting businesses that are working to make their community and the world a better place.
