Q. Can you briefly describe your research as it relates to Earth Day and this year’s theme of Trees for the Earth.
My research looks at how to balance increasing residential density with a desire for more urban forest cover. Municipalities across our region (and across the world) are facing increased population growth and an accompanying loss of urban forest cover. I believe that we need to protect and grow our urban forests to ensure we can face future uncertain climate conditions, both in terms of eco-system services and human well-being. I will be looking at future forest scenarios to determine where there are co-benefits, and where there might be tradeoffs between different urban forest priorities and designs.
Q. Beyond the role of trees in terms of an eco-system service, how are trees important in regards to human wellbeing?
The connection between the presence of nearby green spaces to human health and well-being has been the focus of much recent research in a number of disciplines. The Faculty of Forestry has created a whole second year course devoted to exploring the connections between urban forests and human well-being. Benefits of access to nearby urban forests and greenspaces include: reduced stress levels, reduced ADHD symptoms, better pregnancy outcomes, more social cohesion, and even reduced crime rates.
Q. What would you say is one thing individuals can make to help contribute to a more sustainable future?
It is difficult to choose just one thing! Going with the theme Trees for the Earth, I think individuals should educate themselves about the host of benefits provided by urban forests, and work to increase urban forest cover across all cities of the world. One important piece to consider is increasing equitable access to greenspace. Even in a green city such as Vancouver, some areas of the city have very little urban forest cover. Unfortunately, these areas are also home for some of our most marginalized populations, who could benefit from the health and well-being aspects that greenspace can provide.