Greener As We Grow project: 1.5M trees to be planted in Edmonton – Edmonton
Over the next few years, 1.5 million trees will be planted in Edmonton, thanks to federal projects.
Ottawa has invested $47.8 million in federal funds from the 2 Billion Trees program, and Edmonton has contributed $47.8 million in city funds from the Greener As We Grow tree planting project.
“From providing shade to keep the city cool, to purifying the air and creating healthy outdoor living spaces, this investment in planting more than 1.5 million trees across Edmonton will help build a greener, more sustainable future for generations to come,” said Edmonton City Councilor Randy Boissonneau, federal minister of tourism.
“This collaborative effort between the City of Edmonton and the Government of Canada demonstrates the power of community and environmental stewardship.”
The federal government has pledged to plant 2 billion trees in 10 years. The City of Edmonton has a goal of planting 2 million trees by 2031 as part of its Urban Forest Asset Management goal of achieving 20% canopy cover by 2071.
“Trees help clean the air, shade the streets and shape some of our most beloved public spaces,” said Mayor Amarjeet Sohi.
“Extending Edmonton’s tree canopy is a way to help maintain a comfortable and livable community as we grow.
“This grant will allow us to scale up our reforestation activities over the next eight years, bringing us closer to our goal of becoming a healthy, climate-resilient city.”
Canadian government officials say the Two Billion Trees program will also “create jobs and combat climate change while protecting nature, habitat and biodiversity.”
The program works with states, territories, local communities and indigenous peoples. In a news release, the city said it would work with elders on planting selection and practices.
Also, both the federal government and local governments each provided $166,200 to community forestry teams under the 2 Billion Trees Program for community management programs and 90 trees.
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