In the densely populated city of London, trees have been playing a vital role in improving public health and reducing urban heat. According to recent studies, trees have saved over 150 lives in just eight years by reducing the temperature in large patches of the city by up to 35°F (2°C). However, the increasing development of global cities has led to the uprooting of trees, forcing people to exercise in concrete jungles instead. These urban areas are known as “Urban Heat Island Effect,” which is detrimental to human health.
The study published in IOP Science estimated that Chicago could see more than 30 more days per year where temperatures hit above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (37.8°C), exacerbating existing health conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, respiratory problems, and diabetes. Moreover, urban areas tend to have higher levels of air pollution without trees’ potential filtering process.
The groundbreaking study found that during heatwave events in 2022, London’s tree coverage helped avoid around 16 heat-attributable deaths. The cooling benefits from trees become even greater under hotter future climates. Therefore, increasing tree canopy coverage can help mitigate high urban temperatures and reduce heat-related mortality in the future. It suggests that urban greening should be part of a set of broader public health actions to improve overall well-being. So next time you lace up your sneakers for a scenic run, remember to thank your leafy friends for their contributions to your health and the environment.
