An international group of researchers has called for the adoption of four priority measures to halt the degradation of urban forests and green spaces in cities. According to the authors, these ecosystems face increasing threats caused by climate change, urban expansion, weak legal protection, and insufficient funding.
In an essay prepared by international researchers, the specialists emphasize that urban forests play an essential role in the functioning of ecosystems and in providing services fundamental to the quality of life in cities, including temperature regulation, improved air quality, stormwater management, and biodiversity promotion.
The authors argue that urban forests should be treated as a form of living critical infrastructure, on par with other essential urban facilities and services.
Four priorities for cities
The document identifies four areas of action deemed fundamental to protect and strengthen urban green spaces:
1. Invest in urban forests as essential infrastructure
The researchers advocate for increased public and private investment in planting, maintaining and managing trees and green spaces, recognizing their contribution to public health, climate adaptation and urban sustainability.
2. Ensure equitable access to green spaces
The essay highlights the need to ensure that all communities, regardless of location or socioeconomic status, have access to quality green areas, reducing environmental and social inequalities.
3. Strengthen resilience through evidence-based management
The authors recommend management strategies based on scientific data, continuous monitoring and ongoing learning, enabling cities to respond more effectively to extreme events such as heat waves, droughts and storms.
4. Integrate urban forests into climate and biodiversity policies
The team argues that urban green spaces should be systematically incorporated into climate action plans, nature conservation and territorial planning, ensuring more effective long-term protection.
Urban trees under increasing pressure
According to the researchers, the loss of mature trees and the decline of urban biodiversity compromise cities’ ability to face increasingly intense environmental challenges. Additionally, the reduction of green spaces can directly affect the health and well-being of populations.
The authors conclude that recognizing urban forests as structural elements of cities will be decisive in preserving the livability of urban centers and increasing their capacity to adapt to future climatic and environmental pressures.
