How Parks Play a Role in Tree Equity — Episode 112

On today’s episode, I’m excited talk about something that plays a
critical role in building environmental resilience, cooling our
neighborhoods, and improving the health of our communities:
trees. Trees are critical infrastructure, but due to decades of
redlining and other discriminatory policies, there are fewer
trees in low-income communities and communities of color.


Which is why I am thrilled to talk about tree equity with today’s
guest, Jad Daley, president and CEO of American Forests. Jad
leads American Forests’ strategic vision and serves as its “chief
engagement officer” in building diverse partnerships to advance
its mission to create healthy and resilient forests, from cities
to large natural landscapes, that deliver essential benefits for
climate, people, water and wildlife. He also is directly involved
in the organization’s programmatic work, such as forest-climate
science, policy development and communication.


Jad has a long history of leadership issues related to climate
change and equity, having co-founded the Forest-Climate Working
Group and the 1t.org US Chapter, and establishing the first-ever
climate change program at The Trust for Public Land, where he
served as a vice president and held the endowed Martha Wyckoff
Fellowship.


On this episode, we discuss why more trees in the places that
need them most truly is a life-or-death issue, and why tree
equity is a solution that requires all of us to take action.
According to Jad, “I yearn for game-changing progress on the
urgent challenges of climate change and social equity. I am
inspired by my belief that trees can provide transformational
impact in these areas, and the knowledge that we are doing work
daily that can save lives and our climate, changing the
trajectory of our nation.”


Tune in to learn more about tree equity, why urban trees and
forests are so critical, and why this work means so much to Jad.
You’ll also learn about:


How the Tree Equity Score tool can help park and recreation
professional create tree equity in your cities and towns


Cities and park and recreation agencies that are making an
impact when it comes to tree equity


Ways to keep these critical conversations going beyond Earth
Day


Actions park and recreation professionals can take today to
ensure our communities have equitable access to trees and green
space, and more!



Related Links Discussed in this Episode:


American Forests website

Tree Equity Score

1t.org US Chapter

Forest-Climate Working Group

Follow American Forests on Twitter

Follow American Forests on Instagram

Follow American Forests on Facebook



 


This episode of Open Space Radio is sponsored by Sensodyne.
Sensodyne wants to nourish and strengthen your teeth with every
brush. Their new toothpaste, Sensodyne Nourish, contains natural
mint and essential oils and prevents tooth sensitivity pain when
used twice a day. Plus, the tube and carton are recyclable.


Sensodyne is also on a mission to nourish the planet. As part of
their Acts of Nourish challenge, NRPA is collaborating with them,
as well as local park and recreation professionals, to revitalize
parks and outdoor spaces across the country. You can participate
by submitting your own act of nourish, and potentially win
$10,000 along with some other awesome eco-friendly prizes! It’s a
great way to do some good and get rewarded.


You can enter the challenge and learn more about our park
projects by visiting actsofnourish.com.