The city of Ottawa has many cycling paths, with a large amount of residents cycling as their main method of transport. Many roads are pedestrian-only so walking is popular too. Other areas operate ‘car-free Sundays’ when vehicles (aside from emergency ones) are not allowed on streets.
The country’s cities are very progressive in tree-planting program,s which help to reduce heat island effect (volunteers then look after the trees and report disease to the council). Learn more on why our cities need more trees.
Use no-dig gardening to protect wildlife. Learn how to create gardens safe for pets (use humane slug/snail deterrents). Also know trees to avoid near horses (including yew, oak and sycamore). Avoid facing indoor foliage to outdoor gardens, to help stop birds flying into windows.
Keep away from grey/white caterpillars (oak processionary moths that cause allergies and breathing difficulties – contact a doctor/vet if in contact). Also cordon off affected trees from livestock and horses. Mostly found in London in warm weather, report to your council and Treealert.
Canada is a bigger country than England with half the population, but the weather is similar (often colder). In Vancouver, the council gives free trees for local people, who can report in any that look diseased. From juicy figs to evergreens, the city is now an urban forest, with trees on streets, in parks and backyards, all giving out oxygen and helping to absorb rainwater. Tree-lined avenues also make areas far nicer to live in, and buffer sound in city areas. Brinkman Reforestation has run the longest reforestation program on earth (1.5 billion trees planted over 50 years).
As a footnote to compare – the Johnson government approved chopping down England’s second-oldest pear tree (in Worcestershire) to make way for the HS2 (if completed, this project will kill around 22,000 wildlife a year, based on comparisons with other high-speed trains worldwide). Cameron’s government was only prevented by selling off public forests to private owners, due to a campaign by 38 Degrees.
Overview of Canada’s City Tree Programs
The Tree Canopy Expansion programme encourages public participation, where locals become stewards of newly planted trees. Vancouver stives to be the world’s greenest city, with its Greenest City Action Plan that is increasing urban forest cover.
Montreal enriches its landscape, providing residents with natural retreats. Imagine taking a walk through one of Montreal’s urban forests, knowing that it plays a part in preserving nature. It’s not just about planting; it’s about nurturing life.
Benefits of Urban Tree Programs
Trees are nature’s air purifiers. They clean the air, provide shade that cools the city, and boost biodiversity. Trees also create serene public spaces, to foster good mental health. Not just for walks, but good for the soul.
Comparing Canada’s Programs to England
England can glean much from Canada. Cities like Manchester and Sheffield have tree-planting programs, but nothing like on the scale of Canadian cities.
Hand Drawn Victoria is a guide to this beautiful Canadian city, to inspire what a city with a similar climate and architecture to London could look like without litter and traffic! British Columbia’s capital city has unmissable landmarks yet is also rich in forests, charming houses and curious people, steeped in local history. This coastal city has many natural wonders.
