Issue - meetings

This report provides analysis of an appropriate tree canopy expansion target for York, which will contribute towards the city’s net zero ambition, biodiversity and improve air quality.

Resolved:

(i)           That a 13% target for tree canopy cover in York by 2050 be approved.

Reason: Increasing the tree canopy cover to 13% from the current level of 10.76% will produce carbon sequestration, biodiversity and health benefits. A target of 13% is achievable when balanced against the capacity for tree planting within the unique landscape and setting of York.

(ii)         That it is acknowledged that this target will form part of a wider ambition for the White Rose Forest across the region.

Reason: The regional ambition will be published in a report by WRF on 1 August 2021.

The Executive Member received a report which provided analysis of an appropriate tree canopy expansion target for York, which will contribute towards the city’s net zero carbon ambition, biodiversity and air quality.

During discussion of the item, officers:

·        Explained that the current tree canopy coverage stood at 10.76% and that in order to increase this figure to 13% by 2050, 10,000 new trees would need to be planted each year.

·        Noted that the 50,000 trees planted by 2023 as part of York Community Woodland would aid in progress towards the target.

·        Encouraged local individuals, communities and organisations to contribute towards the city’s target by planting trees of their own

The Executive Member:

·        Thanked officers for their report.

·        Emphasised York’s tree canopy expansion as part of the wider White Rose Forest Partnership and the role that increased canopy coverage will play in flood alleviation for York.

Resolved:

(i)           That a 13% target for tree canopy cover in York by 2050 be approved.

Reason: Increasing the tree canopy cover to 13% from the current level of 10.76% will produce carbon sequestration, biodiversity and health benefits. A target of 13% is achievable when balanced against the capacity for tree planting within the unique landscape and setting of York.

(ii)         That it is acknowledged that this target will form part of a wider ambition for the White Rose Forest across the region.

Reason: The regional ambition will be published in a report by WRF on 1 August 2021.