AN OPINION PIECE BY LION HARENDRA NARAYAN SINGH
I strongly believe that urban trees are not merely decorative elements of our cities; they are our natural first line of defence against rising temperatures and heatwaves. As concrete surfaces multiply and green spaces disappear, cities become increasingly hotter. Trees provide shade, cool the surrounding environment through evapotranspiration, reduce air pollution, and help retain moisture in the soil.
In my view, planting and protecting mature trees should be treated as an essential part of urban planning, not as an afterthought. A single tree may appear insignificant, but thousands of trees across a city can create a powerful cooling network, making neighbourhoods healthier and more liveable.
We must therefore stop unnecessary tree felling and promote native, climate-resilient species in streets, parks, institutional campuses and residential areas. Urban forests are an investment in our future. Protecting trees today means protecting human life, health and the well-being of future generations from tomorrow’s extreme heat.
H.N.Singh
(H. N. Singh is a distinguished Lions International faculty , Trekker, environmentalist and HAM radio operator with callsign VU2YUH)
Leave a comment