Environment & Sustainability TAG

From Canopy Cover to Community Equity:

Protecting and Managing Our Urban Forest

                 Wednesday, May 24, 2:30 - 4:00 pm, Virtual               

 While community members want to protect and preserve trees, the lack of knowledge and resources often hinders their ability to be at the forefront of urban forest conservation, despite the significant community health benefits.

San Mateo County faces significant disparities in tree canopy cover that create environmental and social inequities, particularly in historically underserved neighborhoods. East Palo Alto has a tree canopy cover of only 13.5%, while Atherton has a tree canopy cover of 51.2%. The Urban forest plays a critical role in mitigating the impacts of climate change and improving air and water quality while reducing heat, noise, and flooding. Canopy is a local nonprofit organization at the forefront of urban forestry. The disparity in tree canopy coverage and environmental and social inequity are central to Canopy's mission. To address this issue, residents must feel empowered to participate in canopy management and increase their understanding of the benefits of urban forestry, filling the gap in inequities around canopy management.

We will explore potential solutions with urban forestry experts to advocate for urban forest conservation and learn how local governments can engage communities in canopy management. 

Our guest experts will include: 

• Maya Briones, Canopy, Advocacy Associate
• Canopy Community Member 
• More coming soon!

Note: This event is free to attend, but registration is required.

Spanish interpretation via Zoom.