4. Urban Greening

An urban forest refers to a collection of trees and green spaces with an urban area. This consists of understory such as shrubs up to 3m and the tree canopy which is above 3m.

The benefits of urban forests are significant. They foster our connection to nature, increase liveability of our suburbs, provide critical ecosystem services, and help the community adapt to the effects of a changing climate.

Trees add value to our community by:

• providing shade and protection from the elements;
• reducing heat and glare;
• absorbing carbon dioxide and adding oxygen and moisture to the air
• improving mental health and well-being;
• providing habitats for a diversity of fauna;
• enhancing aesthetics within the streetscape.
  

The City of Albany Urban Tree Strategy (2017) includes the following five objectives to meet the vision of a resilient, healthy, diverse and sustainable urban tree network:

• Greener Urban Parks
• Recognise important biodiversity green links
• Expand our urban street and pathway networks
• Maintain and protect our existing trees
• Promote the value of urban trees

The review of the Urban Tree Strategy is underway, with an Urban Forest Strategy to be developed. The Urban Forest Strategy will guide future management decisions, planning processes, policies and an action plan.