The campaign will mobilize and support residents to regenerate our soils, trees, and habitats for a resilient community, climate, and future.

The temperature extremes of the summer of 2021—when traditionally mild places like the Pacific Northwest reached 120°F and beyond—brought home the impacts of rapidly advancing climate change as well as the importance of natural climate solutions.

Communities must begin preparing for climatic extremes. A host of scientific reports have underscored that the shading and evaporative cooling provided by trees and other plants will be an increasingly critical part of keeping communities safe and livable. 

Alongside the climate crisis, we are facing an unprecedented loss of biodiversity, particularly the loss of crucial native pollinators. Furthermore, our landscapes are becoming increasingly degraded leading to poor soil health and reduced potential to hold water, carbon and nutrients. Planting and protecting trees and creating more diverse habitats for local species within cities can help address the impacts of both climate change, biodiversity loss, and land degradation.

Much of this work will need to take place on private land and be led by community members. City departments can provide support and training, but the scale of change needed will not be possible without the commitment of thousands of engaged residents.