Equity in Canada’s Urban Forests

As published in The Forestry Chronicle 2024, VOL. 100, No 2

Context

Over the past decade, it has been refreshing to witness the shift in urban forestry conservation dialogues and practice to include green equity. What were once dominant narratives of methods, protocols and frameworks increasingly include broader considerations for systemic injustice, marginalization, and vulnerability. Recognition for a holistic approach that considers equity in environmental, social, economic, and health aspects for urban forestry planning, implementation, and education, is now at the forefront of many planning initiatives to enhance the survivability and livability of both human and non-human agents. 

From an ecological perspective this is essential when considering biodiversity, and the critical role urban forests play in mitigating the impacts of climate change and improving environmental quality through temperature regulation, carbon sequestration, air and water purification; and providing habitat for plants, insects and animal species. 

From a social perspective it is equally important to address disparities to ensure that all neighbourhoods have access to quality green spaces, including transportation options to access them. In addition, for the health and well-being of all residents, including safety and security regardless of socio-economic status. Lastly, for more authentic strategies for community participation and engagement in urban greening to evoke belonging. It is also critical for a healthy, diverse workforce. 

Prioritizing urban forest equity and conservation in planning helps create healthier, more resilient, and just communities, and work environments, that are better equipped to meet the diverse needs of their populations. 

Tree Canada’s Contribution

Over the past two years at Tree Canada, operational, research, and educational activities have more intentionally woven these considerations into various partnerships and projects. These include leading projects in urban areas with greater need for trees and disaster relief, building partnerships with Indigenous communities, supporting initiatives beyond tree planting for capacity building, and exploring community education for underserved audiences.

In anticipation of the upcoming Canadian Urban Forest Conference (CUFC), taking place October 15-18 in Winnipeg,Tree Canada’s recent E-Lecture series, in collaboration with the Canadian Institute of Forestry (CIF), focused on place-based learning and public engagement in urban areas as they relate to both social and ecological equity. The series profiled cases across Canada that explored new educational and stewardship pathways, the value of youth engagement and unconventional partnerships, the importance of knowledge sharing for increasing canopy cover equitably, and how to be more intentional about collaborative relationships, concepts of time, and ways of learning. The intention is to share the important work being pursued across the country and evoke dialogue leading up to and beyond the national conference.

CUFC 2024 Program

The Scientific Program Committee for the CUFC has curated a thoughtful and informative program bringing together leading voices in on the topic of equity in urban forestry. The combination of invited keynote presentations, concurrent sessions and panels based on submissions, and poster displays offer a comprehensive overview of the current issues facing Canada’s urban forests, planning practices and education.

Key Takeaways for Participants

• A deeper understanding of why equity is essential in urban forest management and policy making, and how it contributes to broader social and environmental justice goals.
• Information on current research and technologies for urban forestry.
• Examples of urban forestry initiatives and actionable strategies from Canadian communities, showcasing innovative approaches and best practices, including integrating Indigenous knowledge and building meaningful partnerships.
• Techniques for engaging diverse communities in the planning and implementation processes, and a deeper understanding of complex nuances and perspectives across evolving community compositions. 
• Guidance on funding and granting options and securing resources for urban forestry projects and partnerships.
• Opportunities for cross-sectoral learning by connecting with other professionals, researchers, community leaders, and organizations working in the field of urban forestry and equity in various sectors of government, non-profits, businesses, and research institutions, to achieve shared goals.

How we perceive and consider inequity in urban forestry – whether it’s from an ecological lens that may be concerned with tree species selection or wildlife displacement, or from a social lens that may be concerned with gender and labour contentions, or limited access to greenspace –are tied to our own experiences and understandings, and thus our own truths about things. 

Each person’s social and cultural values and perspectives differ based on ethnicity, language, faith, gender, generation, geography, etc. How do we go beyond the language and surface understandings of what equity is and determine how to recognize and pursue strategies authentically?

Overall, there is a need for continuing education, adaptation, and informed responsiveness to address equity challenges and activate opportunities in the field of urban forestry. This conference will provide a comprehensive understanding of these issues, equip participants with practical tools and strategies, and inspire action towards creating more inclusive and resilient urban environments for Canadian communities.