It’s a summer’s day in Paris, France. The temperature is 32°C… nothing too crazy for us Australians, right? In theory, 32°C is a walk in the park for us. But in Paris, as all residents complain, it feels so much hotter.
The reason for this? Lack of tree canopy.
Trees have the ability to reduce heat in urban areas, which is especially vital in a time when every year of the past decade is in the top 10 hottest years on record.
Here’s how trees can reduce the urban heat in Perth and why tree preservation matters in our beautiful city:
What is tree canopy?
Tree canopy is the layer of leaves, branches and stems that cover the ground when viewed from above – in other words, the shade provided by trees. Perth has the least amount of tree canopy out of all the Australian capital cities. This is something that, earlier in the year, WA Planning Minister John Carey announced a new strategy to improve on.
Effects of increased tree canopy
Experts believe that increasing our number of trees and shrubs in Perth can significantly reduce our notorious urban heat. Scientists predict that if we can achieve 30% tree canopy cover in Perth by 2040, temperatures will be lowered in our city by up to 10°C.
There are similar success stories from other parts of the world, too. In Medellin, Colombia, city planners have managed to cut temperatures by 2°C, simply by planting a series of green corridors without the city, which provide precious shade for inhabitants. This shade prevents the concrete roads and footpaths from heating up, which are highly effective at absorbing and storing heat during the day.
Tree canopy therefore prevents localised temperature increases which are caused by exposed paved and dark-coloured surfaces like roads, roofs and car parks in our cities and urban areas.
Tree preservation in Perth
Therefore, it’s never been more important for us to preserve tall, shade-providing trees in Perth. Western Tree Surgeons understand this: we’ve been caring for and preserving heritage trees in Perth for over 60 years altogether. Western Tree Surgeons specialise in:
- Pruning
Removing dead branches in order to improve the health of canopy-providing trees.
- Infestation management
Employing the right processes to help a tree overcome a pest infestation.
- Sick tree care
Reviving a sick tree and getting its health back on track.
- Root management
Ensuring strong, healthy roots.
- Tree support system development
Ensuring trees grow up healthy and strong using support systems.
Choose Western Tree Surgeons for tree preservation in Perth
Need an expert to help preserve trees in Perth? Look no further than Western Tree Surgeons – Perth’s #1 for tree care and arboriculture. With over 60 years of combined experience in all aspects of tree care, Western Tree Surgeons have a reputation for quality work and competitive prices. Give us a call today!