Close Menu
The Central Wire
  • Home
  • News
  • Editorial
  • Business
  • Sci-Tech
  • Entertainment
  • Sports
  • Opinion
  • Markets
  • Automotive
  • Lifestyle
  • Tech Reviews
Facebook
The Central WireThe Central Wire
Subscribe
Friday, June 6
  • Home
  • News
  • Editorial
  • Business
  • Sci-Tech
  • Entertainment
  • Sports
The Central Wire
  • Home
  • News
  • Editorial
  • Business
  • Sci-Tech
  • Entertainment
  • Sports
Home - Earth - Urgent Remedy: Urban Tree Inequity Fuels Heat-Related Mortality
New study reveals the devastating impact of urban tree inequality on heat-related mortality in communities of color.
New study reveals the devastating impact of urban tree inequality on heat-related mortality in communities of color.

Urgent Remedy: Urban Tree Inequity Fuels Heat-Related Mortality

Earth 03/07/2024Basanta Kumar SahooBy Basanta Kumar Sahoo3 Mins ReadUpdated:07/07/2024

Urban Heat Islands: A Deadly Disparity

A groundbreaking study published in npj Urban Sustainability has unveiled a chilling correlation between urban tree cover inequality and heat-related illness and mortality in the United States. Predominantly non-white neighborhoods, already grappling with systemic disparities, bear the brunt of this inequity, experiencing a disproportionate number of heat-related deaths and hospitalizations due to significantly lower tree cover compared to their predominantly white counterparts.

Unveiling the Data: A Sobering Reality

Urban ecologist Rob McDonald of The Nature Conservancy and colleagues meticulously analyzed 2020 U.S. census data for 5,723 urban areas, encompassing roughly half of the U.S. population. Their findings reveal a stark reality: neighborhoods with predominantly people of color have, on average, 11% less tree cover and endure summer temperatures approximately 0.2 degrees Celsius higher than majority white neighborhoods. Shockingly, this translates to 442 excess deaths and 85,000 additional doctor visits annually in these underserved communities.

The Power of Trees: Nature’s Air Conditioner

Trees are not merely aesthetic additions to urban landscapes; they function as natural air conditioners, providing much-needed relief during scorching heat waves. The cooling effect of trees is particularly pronounced when their shade falls upon heat-absorbing surfaces like concrete and asphalt. In fact, existing trees already prevent an estimated 442 excess deaths and 85,000 doctor visits annually in predominantly non-white neighborhoods.

Reversing the Trend: A Call to Action

The study’s findings underscore the urgent need for targeted tree planting initiatives in underserved communities. While an ambitious nationwide effort to plant 1.2 billion trees could potentially prevent 460 additional heat-related deaths and 81,000 doctor visits annually, even a modest 5% increase in existing tree canopy cover could yield substantial benefits in cities like Philadelphia and New York City.

Inclusivity in Urban Planning: A Critical Imperative

The research not only highlights the life-saving potential of trees but also emphasizes the importance of inclusivity in urban planning. Previous studies have shown that green infrastructure projects often neglect the very communities that stand to benefit most. Engaging these communities in the planning process is crucial to ensure their needs are met and that both new and existing trees are properly maintained.

Key Learning Points:

Key PointDescription
Urban tree inequality disproportionately affects communities of color.Predominantly non-white neighborhoods have less tree cover and higher temperatures than majority white areas.
This inequality leads to increased heat-related illness and death.Lack of tree cover results in excess deaths and hospitalizations in underserved communities.
Trees provide significant cooling benefits during heat waves.Trees act as natural air conditioners, especially when shading heat-absorbing surfaces.
Targeted tree planting can save lives and reduce healthcare burdens.Increasing tree canopy cover in underserved areas could prevent hundreds of deaths and thousands of doctor visits annually.
Inclusive urban planning is crucial for equitable distribution of benefits.Engaging communities in the planning process ensures their needs are met and trees are properly maintained.

Basanta Kumar Sahoo
Basanta Kumar Sahoo

Basant Kumar Sahoo is a seasoned writer with extensive experience in crafting tech-related articles, insightful editorials, and engaging sports content. With a deep understanding of technology trends, a knack for thought-provoking commentary, and a passion for sports, Basant brings a unique blend of expertise and creativity to his writing. His work is known for its clarity, depth, and ability to connect with readers across diverse topics.

climate change environmental justice heat-related illness public health tree canopy urban heat island urban planning
Previous ArticleDisquieting Disruption: Climate Change Wreaks Havoc on Global Timekeeping
Next Article Unveiled Vulnerability: The Ross Ice Shelf’s Precarious Future in a Warming World

Keep Reading

How the Climate Crisis is Drowning West Bengal’s Future

India’s Climate Crisis: Urgent Actions Needed for Survival

EAM Jaishankar: 5 Powerful Outcomes from Diplomatic Tour

DMCA.com Protection Status
World At a Glance

Ireland Hate Speech Law Shelved After Controversy

22/09/2024

Russian Airstrike Hits Kharkiv, Injuring 12 Civilians

22/09/2024

Ukraine War: Russia Rejects Peace Talks in Diplomatic Blow

22/09/2024

France Right-Wing Government Rises Amid Political Deadlock

22/09/2024

Ukraine War: Allies’ Support Key to Victory, Zelenskyy Warns

22/09/2024
Trending Now

Armani/Caffè Debuts in Mumbai, Redefining Luxury Dining

13/09/2024

Friday the 13th: Superstition, History, and the Internet’s Obsession

13/09/2024

Paris Paralympics 2024: India’s Record 29 Medals Achieved

09/09/2024

All the Winners (and EGOTs) of the 2024 Creative Arts Emmys

09/09/2024

Gillian Anderson’s Evolution: From Iconic TV Star to Advocate for Women’s Sexual Liberation

09/09/2024
TCW LOGO
  • World Today
  • India Today
  • Sports
  • Entertainment
  • Business
  • Gadgets Review
  • Car Review
  • Bike Review
  • Mobile Review
  • Tablet review
  • Editorials
  • Opinion
  • Editor's Choice
  • Explained
  • Trending Now
© 2025 The Central Wire or its affiliated companies. All rights reserved.
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms
  • About Us
  • Contact Us

Type above and press Enter to search. Press Esc to cancel.