The role of urban green space and trees in relation to climate change

Urban areas are particularly susceptible to climate change. For instance, effects of increasing temperatures on public health and energy demands for cooling of buildings are further intensified by the urban heat island effect, and the current sewer infrastructure is not designed to handle predicted rainstorm events. Urban green spaces can play a role in climate change mitigation approaches, but in particular with regard to climate change adaptation. This includes moderation of urban temperatures as well as linking green spaces and stormwater management. However, climate change also influences the growth conditions of urban vegetation, and as beneficial effects depend on vital and lush plants, establishment and management practices of urban plantings have to adapt to climate change challenges as well. While environmental, social and economic benefits of urban green space are well established, there is still a significant lack of knowledge for the site adapted planning and design of a green infrastructure in a given location to meet the challenges of climate change.