The City of Perth has named May as Tree Month, with a commitment to double the number of trees it plants in 2023 compared to the past three years.
Between 2020 and to 2022, the city planted around 500 trees a year and Lord Mayor, Basil Zempilas said this would double to more than 1,000 this year.
“We’re declaring May as Tree Month to highlight the importance of preserving and increasing tree canopy and vegetation throughout the city,” Mr Zempilas said.
“During May we’ll be running a series of community planting days and activities to showcase how we can collectively make our city greener and preserve our tree canopy.”
He said residents would be invited to take part in activities such as community planting days, and attend Greening our City workshops to learn about the importance of native vegetation, balcony gardening and growing food.
Mr Zempilas said the city was reaffirming its commitment, through the Urban Forest Plan, to increase Perth’s tree canopy.
“Of course, it’s not just the number of trees we plant, but how they grow and contribute to the canopy over time. We’re committed to growing our urban forest with a variety of trees that will survive in our harsh climate and be enjoyed for generations to come,” he said.
The City of Perth’s Urban Forest Plan is a 30-year strategic action plan, designed to promote the long-term benefits of tree canopy cover.
The plan details how the city will contribute to increasing its tree canopy from 19 per cent to 30 per cent over the next three decades.
