Project Abstract

Enhancing the Livability and Resilience of our Cities Urban forests play a vital role in enhancing the livability and resilience of our cities. They provide a multitude of ecosystem services, from improving air quality and mitigating the urban heat island effect to reducing stormwater runoff and enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of urban environments. However, with the rapid pace of urbanization and the increasing pressure on land resources, the management and preservation of urban forests have become a significant challenge. This project aims to develop and implement sustainable urban forestry practices that can help address these challenges and create more livable and resilient cities. The project will focus on three key areas (1) urban tree inventory and assessment, (2) strategic urban forest management, and (3) community engagement and capacity building. 1. Urban Tree Inventory and Assessment The project will begin with a comprehensive assessment of the existing urban forest, including the identification of tree species, their age, health, and spatial distribution. This information will be used to create a detailed inventory of the urban forest, which will serve as the foundation for the development of strategic management plans. 2. Strategic Urban Forest Management Based on the findings of the urban tree inventory, the project will develop a comprehensive urban forest management plan. This plan will include strategies for tree planting, maintenance, and replacement, as well as measures to address threats such as pests, diseases, and climate change. The plan will also incorporate best practices for sustainable urban forestry, such as the use of native tree species, water-efficient irrigation systems, and integrated pest management. 3. Community Engagement and Capacity Building Recognizing the importance of community involvement in the success of urban forestry initiatives, this project will place a strong emphasis on engaging with local residents, businesses, and community organizations. The project will organize workshops, educational programs, and volunteer events to raise awareness about the benefits of urban forests and encourage active participation in their management and preservation. Additionally, the project will work to build the capacity of local authorities and urban forestry professionals by providing training and resources on sustainable urban forestry practices. The expected outcomes of this project include - Improved understanding of the urban forest's composition, health, and ecosystem services - Increased tree canopy cover and improved species diversity within the urban forest - Reduced urban heat island effect and improved air quality - Enhanced stormwater management and reduced flood risk - Increased community engagement and support for urban forestry initiatives - Improved capacity of local authorities and urban forestry professionals to implement sustainable urban forestry practices By implementing these sustainable urban forestry practices, this project aims to contribute to the creation of more livable and resilient cities. The project's findings and lessons learned will be disseminated to other municipalities, providing a blueprint for the adoption of similar initiatives in other urban areas. Through this collaborative effort, we can work towards a future where urban forests are recognized as integral components of sustainable and thriving communities.

Project Overview