Sydney Targets Tree Cover

Vegetation and green spaces have long been a feature of urban design and landscaping. But in addition to aesthetic and social perks, it has numerous environmental benefits. For instance, more trees improve air quality and stormwater infiltration. They also help to counteract the urban heat island effect, which could result in 1-3°C higher temperatures in cities versus rural areas.

What was the challenge?

Between 2013 and 2020, the majority of Local Government Areas (LGAs) in greater Sydney experienced a decline in green cover. The Australian Conservation Foundation warned of escalating heat issues in Sydney, attributed to diminishing green cover, the Urban Heat Island (UHI) effect, and climate change. Over the past decade, most major Australian cities, including Sydney, saw a decline in green spaces, with Hobart being the exception, experiencing only a marginal 1% increase in vegetation from 2013 to 2020. With vegetation playing a crucial role in mitigating rising temperatures, the report emphasized the urgent need to increase green cover across Australia to prevent severe heatwave impacts by 2060 to 2080. Failure to do so could lead to unlivable conditions, with Sydney potentially reaching temperatures as high as 62°C due to the combined effects of the UHI, reduced vegetation, and climate change. Additionally, the report pointed out that urban construction materials like dark asphalt and steel exacerbated the UHI effect by absorbing more heat.

What action was taken?

The City of Sydney has made significant strides in improving its green cover over the years. As of 2019, the tree canopy cover had increased to nearly 20%, thanks in part to the planting of more than 16,000 street trees since 2004. This achievement reflects a commitment to enhancing the city’s environmental sustainability and livability, while also improving biodiversity and resilience in the face of a changing climate.

To continue on this positive trajectory and meet the ambitious target of having 40% green cover, including a minimum of 27% tree canopy by 2050, the city has outlined a clear direction in its Urban Forest Strategy. This strategy aims to further increase the number of trees planted throughout the city, ensuring that they can provide their numerous benefits equitably in the years to come.

Moreover, the city has a comprehensive policy framework that protects trees from indiscriminate removal, providing guidelines for the replacement, management, and preservation of trees, recognizing their historical, cultural, ecological value.

What changed?

By championing policies to make the city more green, residents of Sydney enjoy one of the highest levels of tree coverage among the cities covered in the Dynamic Cities Dashboard, at 2,107 square meters per capita as of 2016.