By Matt Rader, President PHS
I believe that people cultivating plants can transform our region’s health and well-being. PHS has trained, supported, and partnered with 5,000 volunteer Tree Tenders to plant 14,000 trees over the last decade. But we are still falling short.
Rx: Shade
Based on a recent study released by Philadelphia Parks and Recreation there was a 6% decrease in Philadelphia’s Tree Canopy from 2008 to 2018. Trees make neighborhoods healthier and safer. The loss of any canopy sets back the region’s health, so we must come together to radically scale up tree planting efforts. PHS invites you to volunteer your time and money to make this happen.
The tree canopy, or area of land shaded by trees, in Philadelphia and the region is a precious commodity – trees clean and cool the air, minimize stormwater runoff, brighten a concrete sidewalk, and provide a natural habitat for animals. Studies show that trees and green space are associated with decreases in violent crime, increase people’s sense of wellbeing, and decrease stress. Neighbors coming together to plant and care for trees through PHS’s Tree Tenders program build and nurture strong community connections.
The goal for a healthy tree canopy in Philadelphia is 30% coverage. This is a long game – we must plant, nurture, and protect trees now to provide canopy in the future. Building the tree canopy is a team sport that includes government, businesses, non-profits, volunteers, and anyone who wants to help.
Let’s Turn Down the Heat
We must put special focus on neighborhoods with the lowest tree canopy, some as low as 2.5%. These areas have been identified by PHS as “hot zone” priority neighborhoods and have the highest average temperatures and serious environmental justice concerns. PHS is working with residents and leaders in these neighborhoods to build support for tree planting and engage volunteers in planting and caring for trees. To get an idea of where our hot zones are, please visit the Tree Tenders maps section of phsonline.org.
