Tree Canopy Equity Expansion

Trees are a vital climate action tool because they help reduce emissions while providing unique protection against the effects of our already-changing climate. Unfortunately, Chicago’s tree canopy has decreased in recent years, exacerbating tree canopy disparities in historically disadvantaged and under resourced communities.

The Chicago Recovery Plan will change this trajectory by targeting tree planting in these communities through the Our Roots Chicago initiative, while also continuing to plant citywide. As part of this initiative, the Tree Ambassadors Program is partnering with community organizations to train a select group of volunteers to help educate neighbors on the importance of trees, identify appropriate tree planting sites, and officially submit them to the Bureau of Forestry for expedited planting.