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Tree Equity and Trees' Impact on Surface Temperatures, Human Health: A Research Roundup

Summary

This article from Harvard Kennedy School's Shorenstein Center explores the critical relationship between urban tree canopy cover, surface temperatures, and human health. It emphasizes that the absence of trees is not just an aesthetic concern; it has profound implications for well-being. The research roundup highlights several studies that delve into this association and underscore the disparities in tree distribution, particularly in low-income neighborhoods. The article presents findings that demonstrate how urban areas with less tree cover tend to experience higher temperatures due to the urban heat island effect, which can lead to heat-related illnesses. Moreover, it discusses the importance of increasing green spaces, planting more trees, and investing in policies that promote tree equity to mitigate these disparities and improve overall public health. The studies featured in the roundup provide valuable insights into the intersection of environmental equity, health, and urban planning.

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July 15, 2024
Climate Change
Climate Change

The National Young Farmers Coalition’s Michelle Hughes discusses the shortcomings of the 2024 Farm Bill in a conversation with Ray Levy Uyeda.

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Energy Justice
Energy Justice

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July 15, 2024
Environmental Justice
Environmental Justice

A proposed offshore wind port on Sears Island, Maine, has sparked debate among residents, environmentalists, and labor advocates.

July 15, 2024
Environmental Justice
Environmental Justice

The U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia has signed a consent decree requiring the EPA to act on haze pollution plans from Texas and 31 other states.

July 13, 2024
Energy Justice
Energy Justice

Multnomah County, Oregon, is suing fossil fuel companies, including Exxon, Shell, and Chevron, for their role in causing a deadly heat dome in June 2021

July 12, 2024
Environmental Justice
Environmental Justice

Hurricane Beryl, a Category 1 storm, caused multiple fossil fuel plants on the Gulf Coast to release toxic pollutants due to power outages that led to flaring.

July 12, 2024
Climate Change
Climate Change

Brent McNiel's home in Richmond, Texas, remained powered during Hurricane Beryl thanks to his solar and battery system from Sunrun Solar.

July 11, 2024
Environmental Justice
Environmental Justice

The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) has greenlit a significant methane gas pipeline project through predominantly Black and brown communities in Tennessee, raising environmental

July 11, 2024
Climate Change
Climate Change

CenterPoint Energy spent significantly less on tree maintenance compared to other utilities serving Greater Houston.

July 11, 2024

A record-breaking heat wave continues to afflict the U.S., particularly the East and West, with forecasts predicting its spread to the Southeast.

July 10, 2024
Climate Change
Climate Change

FEMA is revising its disaster rules to incorporate climate change impacts when rebuilding after floods.

July 9, 2024
Climate Change
Climate Change

Carlos Claussell Velez discusses the significant impact of trees in mitigating the effects of urban heat islands, particularly during heat waves.

July 9, 2024
Climate Change
Climate Change

Timet’s new titanium production facility in Ravenswood, West Virginia, will be the first industrial plant in the U.S. powered by a solar microgrid.

July 5, 2024
Climate Change
Climate Change

Aging water infrastructure in Texas's major cities is leading to significant water loss, with approximately 88 billion gallons wasted in the past year.

July 5, 2024
Climate Change
Climate Change

Albuquerque's efforts to ensure a stable water supply have been undermined by a critical issue: the El Vado Dam, a key infrastructure piece for the city's water management