We are now facing the major challenges of climate change and where the majority of the global population live. We are experiencing changes in our weather patterns that
include prolonged periods of hotter weather and of intense rainfall.
For those living in cities that brings significant impacts such as the Urban Heat Island effect and risks to health and wellbeing. With an expected 70 % of the world’s population living in cites by 2050 this could affect some 5.6 billion people worldwide.
The natural environment and trees especially can help adapt our living environment and mitigate some of the effects we experience from climate change. We are already recognising the importance of trees to lock away carbon, a key component of greenhouse gases, within their trunks, branches and leaves. However, trees also provide a calming visual aspect that aids mental health and well-being, can help in the absorption and interception of storm water and create air cooling effects
amongst other benefits. Knowing that trees play such an important part in ensuring cities remain habitable for the future we need to protect the trees we have and enhance the tree scape of Birmingham through continual planting and expansion of
canopy cover.
However, trees themselves are also susceptible to climate change and the rise in non-native pests and diseases. So, to ensure we have a resilient tree scape that continues to deliver all these benefits there needs to be a comprehensive plan for the management of our Urban Forest.
Therefore Birmingham City Council and it’s partners including members, residents, landowners, organisations and groups have created the Birmingham Urban Forest Master Plan for 2021- 2051.
Every tree in the city is part of our Urban Forest, all those on public land and private land including our gardens and workplaces. Every tree has a guardian. This plan is to guide all guardians and future guardians in the decisions they make about the trees in their care.
For more information please email: Cityofnature@birmingham.gov.uk
Naturally Birmingham CIC 