[1.4] Heritage and Connection Ireland was once largely covered by temperate rainforest, a unique kind of woodland that only grows in limited areas worldwide. [3] Given this, trees have always had a significant role in Irish mythology and folklore. Trees further play a heritage role by connecting us with past (and future) generations, as many of the trees we enjoy today were planted by those several generations before us. Trees also provide important landmarks and contribute to a unique sense of place and location. [1.5] Biodiversity and Natural Ecosystem Many animals, including mammals, birds, and pollinators have adapted to live alongside humans in our urban landscape. Woodland, hedgerows, and individual trees in places like parks, golf courses, riverbanks, graveyards, and gardens all provide urban habitats, sanctuary, and movement corridors for wildlife in the city. The maintenance of a complete and comprehensive tree and hedgerow network is important to sustain thriving biodiversity, which is in a critical state of emergency. [4] [1.6] Economic Benefits Trees provide attractive spaces for people to live and interact, and this often translates into economic value. Research has shown that the presence of trees has increased property values by 5-18%.[1] The presence of trees also impacts behaviour. Shopping areas with greenery have been shown to attract more customers. Apartment blocks surrounded by mature trees have experienced 52% fewer reported crimes than those without greenery. [1] Trees also have economic benefits in reducing energy and heating costs, due to their shade, wind sheltering, and air temperature regulation effects. [1.7] Climate Adaptation & Mitigation Trees can help mitigate the negative impacts of the Climate Emergency and help sequester carbon. For example, trees can cool the air by several degrees, combating ‘urban heat islands’. Heat islands have been identified in the commercial core areas of Cork City where there is a lack of vegetation, within high-density residential areas houses with hard surfaced yards and within industrial facilities with high levels of paving. [5] These areas all tend to have low tree canopy cover. Trees reduce costs for cooling of adjacent buildings due to their shading effect. Belts of trees can also buffer the effects of extreme weather, providing shelter for homes, businesses, farms, and livestock.
[1.8] Trees Face Challenges While trees are vitally important to cities, they also face many challenges in urban environments that must be addressed as part of this strategy to ensure healthy green infrastructure for the city:
[1.9] Impacts from Other Uses in the Streetscape Trees need space to flourish. A tree is much more than what we see above ground. A healthy tree root system is essential for stabilisation and for absorbing water and nutrients. Below ground, tree roots may be impacted by utility networks or damaged by construction works. Above ground, branches may be subject to vandalism, damaged through carelessness, or excessively pruned due to tree canopy impacts on daylight or access.
[ Trees in Cities: Their Importance and Challenges ]
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