Trees and Parks Reduce Heat and Pollution
People in lower-income communities have a higher risk of heat stroke and death from California’s increasing heatwave.
Trees and parks reduce heat and pollution in neighborhoods.
They provide shade, fresh air, and open space for exercise and socializing.
Trees Cool and Filter the Air
The urban heat island effect is caused by concrete surfaces in a neighborhood absorbing and radiating heat.
People in neighborhoods with trees and parks:
- Are healthier and
- Suffer less from heatwaves.
Cover concrete with trees and other plants.
Trees and plants reflect most sunlight back out of the atmosphere as light.
Get up-to-date information about current heat events and how to safe in extreme heat.
Sunlight beamed on concrete becomes heat.
Trees and natural areas:
- Cool neighborhoods by up to 20°
- Filter pollution and increase oxygen.
Parks and Gardens Make People Healthier and Happier
Parks and community gardens:
Cool, shared family spaces, especially in hot months when lack of AC makes it difficult for families to gather indoors
- Shade
- Fresh air
- A safe place for families
Many scientific studies show the health benefits of urban green spaces.
Benefits of Trees in Neighborhoods Video
Funding and Planting Parks and Trees
Communities and neighbors working together can get support to plant trees and create green spaces locally.
Grant funding is available from California:
Tree Planting Organizations around California
Most larger towns in California have local tree-planting foundations that provide free trees and guide the planting process.
Community Gardens
Across California, locals work together to grow food that neighbors can eat.
- This can give fresh produce to residents or areas without local grocery stores.
- Many gardens include onsite composting of food scraps donated by neighbors.
Resources to Create a Community Garden
More Resources
- Access to Parks and green spaces in LA
- Tree Planting in Neighborhoods
- Health Benefits of Urban Greenspace
- Using Trees and Vegetation to Reduce Heat Islands
- Why City Parks Matter
- Tips for staying safe in extreme heat from CA Dept. of Public Health or Listos CA