Thesis Defense: Emma Gilligan on Tree Shade Mitigating Heat

Topic: Informing Policy: Community Perspectives on Reducing Heat Through Tree Shade

Speaker: Emma Gilligan

GES Master's Student

Abstract: Climate change and the urban heat island effect (UHI) exacerbate extreme heat events, endangering urban resident health. A majority of the research found on urban cooling via tree shade focuses on 1) measuring heat and tree cover, and 2) speaking with tree management professionals on the topic of 1). I focused this research on the lived experiences of Baltimore, MD residents. I interviewed and surveyed residents, as well as interviewing professionals working with Baltimore trees. Interviews concluded with a Q sort regarding participant preferences of neighborhood features, including cooling methods. Results show that neighborhood features like tree shade have greater appeal the more accessible their implementation and maintenance are. Residents find that existing tree management programs have potential for increasing cooling tree shade, but are lacking in equitable maintenance and planting where needed most. Furthermore, residents call for the city government to spearhead tree planting and maintenance, while incorporating resident input. Government-resident collaboration benefits from involvement of third parties, including non-profits, as appropriate.