Los Angeles, with one of the smallest arboreal canopies of any major American city, has launched an initiative to plant one million trees over the next few years.
"Trees can save energy and improve air and water quality; they also provide economic value, because trees can increase property value. For instance, it's been shown that a tree-lined commercial street can experience a 12 percent increase in shopping because of the more pleasant environment. And in addition, the involvement of Angelenos in this project will be transformative, because it will mean a commitment on the part of the people of Los Angeles to participate in the improvement of their environment."
"This initiative is based on science. We're designing it by using a canopy analysis, which is a scientific document done by Greg McPherson, a well known professor of urban forest research at UC-Davis. He's analyzed the canopy cover of the city to show us where it's the lowest. We've broken it down by Council districts, and it will be further broken down by neighborhood councils. He will help us select sites for trees that will maximize environmental benefits."
Thanks to Josh Stephens
FULL STORY: Growing Green: City of L.A. Kicks Off Million Trees Initiative
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