Climate change is now a reality that we can no longer fail to address. This means not only taking steps to mitigate it, but also working to deal with the environmental changes that are already upon us.
Fortunately, cities, communities and tribal areas across the US are each receiving part of a $1.3 billion plan to build urban forests across the country. According to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency research, places with tree cover are 2.9 degrees Fahrenheit colder than treeless ones. The effort aims to prevent excessive heat events in cities by enhancing the urban tree canopy.
These new areas will also provide beauty, recreation, mood enhancement, stress relief and more physical activity.